Pregnancy outcomes in women receiving eculizumab for the management of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria

Abstract

Aims To report pregnancy outcomes and complications in women receiving eculizumab for the management of paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria. Methods A service evaluation of routinely collected medical records across 49 pregnancies in 21 women. Results Eculizumab was used in 37 pregnancies, 31 of which (83.8%) ended in live birth. Eight infants (25.8%) were born prematurely. Over half (54%) of women required increases in their dose of eculizumab to control their haemolysis. There were no reported cases of maternal thrombosis. Major ante/postpartum bleeding necessitating urgent intervention was reported in 10.8% of pregnancies. There were two cases of intrauterine death and three miscarriages. There were no maternal or neonatal deaths. Three newborns required prolonged hospital stays. Conclusions Eculizumab appears to benefit pregnant women with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria and pregnancy outcomes following its use are largely good.