Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
3953957 | International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics | 2007 | 6 Pages |
ObjectiveTo assess plasmapheresis with low dose prednisone on obstetric and neonatal outcomes among unsuccessfully treated pregnant women with documented antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).MethodsEighteen pregnant women received prednisone (10 mg/day) and plasmapheresis at 7.08 ± 0.6 weeks of gestation, for 3 sessions per week, until lupus anticoagulant activity suppressed and IgG anticardiolipin lowered. Serial pulsatility indexes (PI) of umbilical and uterine arteries were performed.ResultsThe live birth rate was 100%; mild pre-eclampsia 5.5%; preterm deliveries 22.22%; intrauterine growth restriction 11.11%; thrombocytopenia 5.5%; oligohydramnios and fetal distress 16.6%. There were no perinatal deaths, thrombotic events or lupus flare. Uterine artery PI was reduced and umbilical artery PI was > 95th percentile.ConclusionPlasmapheresis and low dose prednisone were associated with a low rate of obstetric and neonatal complications. Plasmapheresis may be used to treat pregnant women with documented APS when first lines (aspirin and/or heparin) fail to prevent pregnancy loss.