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Rheumatic Diseases in Reproductive Age—the Possibilities and the Risks

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Abstract

The most common systemic connective tissue diseases (CTD), such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), systemic sclerosis (SSc), and Sjögren’s syndrome (SjS), affect many women of reproductive age. These diseases may strongly impact the course of pregnancy and increase the risk factors of incompatibility. A literature search was done on MEDLINE, PubMed, and Google Scholar in 2011–2021. The analysis included meta-analysis, randomized control trials, prospective and retrospective studies, and systematic reviews. The literature search allowed us to form conclusions and underline recommendations regarding pregnancy’s risk and treatment possibilities in the course of rheumatic disease. Optimal control of CTD activity should be reached at least 6 months before conception. High-risk pregnancies are often accompanied by maternal-placental syndrome, which manifests as preeclampsia, eclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and prematurity. The flare of rheumatic disease can coexist with obstetrical complications, and differential diagnosis can be difficult. Medications that do not influence the risk of fetus complications should be applied before and during pregnancy. Teratogenic drugs (e.g., methotrexate, leflunomide, cyclophosphamide) must be withdrawn before pregnancy. Conventional medications such as hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, colchicine, and the TNFα inhibitor certolizumab can be used safely at any stage of pregnancy. Corticosteroids should be tapered, and other biologics should be avoided due to teratogenicity or carefully administered due to the impact on the fetal immune system. Distinguishing between disease flare and obstetrical complications can be difficult in clinical practice; however, some clinical symptoms and serological markers can be helpful in the differential diagnosis.

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  1. Department of Rheumatology, Rehabilitation and Internal Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 28 Czerwca Street 135/147, 60-545, Poznań, Poland

    Bogna Grygiel-Górniak, Elena Masiero, Briana Candace Nevaneeth & Melissa Mary Jojy

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Contributions

Conceptualization: Bogna Grygiel-Górniak

Manuscript writing: Elena Masiero, Briana Candace Nevaneeth, Melissa Mary Jojy

Graph preparation and concepts of tables: Bogna Grygiel-Górniak

Manuscript editing and reviewing: Bogna Grygiel-Górniak

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Correspondence to Bogna Grygiel-Górniak.

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Grygiel-Górniak, B., Masiero, E., Nevaneeth, B.C. et al. Rheumatic Diseases in Reproductive Age—the Possibilities and the Risks. Reprod. Sci. 30, 111–123 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43032-022-00901-6

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