Outcome of Pregnancy in Less Common Rheumatic Diseases: Inflammatory Myositis, Systemic Sclerosis and Vasculitis

Abstract

Pregnancy and fetal outcomes in patients suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus or antiphospholipid syndrome have been well described, as these are more common diseases and associated with frequent maternal and fetal complications. The data is scant about pregnancy-related morbidity and its outcome among less common rheumatic diseases like inflammatory myositis, systemic sclerosis (SSc), and vasculitis. Inflammatory myositis, vasculitis, and SSc are associated with higher risk of spontaneous abortions, preterm delivery, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Conception during active disease is associated with poor pregnancy outcomes, hence good control of disease is important. These diseases also increase risk of maternal complications like hypertension, preeclampsia, and antepartum hemorrhage. Due to rarity of these diseases, the individual experience of a physician is limited, thus it requires a collaborative team approach to have best outcome.