Angela Assal1, Janine Malcolm2, Heather Lochnan2, Erin Keely2. 1. Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. 2. Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada; Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Approximately 174 pregnancies in acromegaly have been reported. Our objectives were to identify the key challenges of preconception counselling in this population. METHODS: Case series of three acromegalic women with desire for pregnancy. Issues were identified from chart review and discussion with attending physicians. Literature review of acromegaly and pregnancy was conducted. RESULTS: Important issues identified included: impact of acromegaly on fertility, management of acromegaly in the peripartum period, screening for associated conditions, risk of progression of acromegaly/tumour growth during pregnancy, impact of acromegaly on pregnancy outcomes, surveillance during pregnancy, method of delivery and impact on neonatal outcomes and breastfeeding. CONCLUSIONS: Pregnancy can be safely achieved in patients with acromegaly. There is little evidence to guide recommendations around conception and pregnancy surveillance. Patients can be reassured that in most situations, pregnancy proceeds without complication and that medical treatment can be used during pregnancy if necessary.
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Approximately 174 pregnancies in acromegaly have been reported. Our objectives were to identify the key challenges of preconception counselling in this population. METHODS: Case series of three acromegalicwomen with desire for pregnancy. Issues were identified from chart review and discussion with attending physicians. Literature review of acromegaly and pregnancy was conducted. RESULTS: Important issues identified included: impact of acromegaly on fertility, management of acromegaly in the peripartum period, screening for associated conditions, risk of progression of acromegaly/tumour growth during pregnancy, impact of acromegaly on pregnancy outcomes, surveillance during pregnancy, method of delivery and impact on neonatal outcomes and breastfeeding. CONCLUSIONS: Pregnancy can be safely achieved in patients with acromegaly. There is little evidence to guide recommendations around conception and pregnancy surveillance. Patients can be reassured that in most situations, pregnancy proceeds without complication and that medical treatment can be used during pregnancy if necessary.
Authors: L Ben Salem Hachmi; I Kammoun; C Bouzid; H Smida; S Nagi; Z Turki; C Ben Slama Journal: Ann Endocrinol (Paris) Date: 2009-11-18 Impact factor: 2.478