Comprehensive Literature Review of Obstetric Outcomes and Fetal Risk during Pregnancy with Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum

Abstract

Individuals with pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) have often been advised against becoming pregnant due to a fear of the exacerbation of existing symptoms, likelihood of inheritance of the disease, and possible obstetric risks associated with the mother and child. PXE is a recessive multisystem disorder that leads to calcification of elastic tissues and fibers that can result in arterial rupture and gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, possibly endangering the fetus and mother. PXE often manifests in skin lesions as well and the risk of exacerbation is a principal concern. To address these complications and to provide transparent understanding to healthcare providers and mothers of the associated risk factors with pregnancy and PXE, we conducted a comprehensive review of the current literature and found that there is no inherent risk for obstetric complications for PXE pregnancies and patients need not be advised against becoming pregnant as previously suggested. PXE-related pregnancies are unremarkable to the mother’s wellbeing and fetal complications are few, if any at all.