Susac syndrome and multifocal motor neuropathy first manifesting in pregnancy

Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2013 Jun;53(3):314-7. doi: 10.1111/ajo.12069. Epub 2013 Mar 23.

Abstract

Susac Syndrome (SS) and multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) are rare autoimmune neurological conditions which can affect women of childbearing years. The effect of pregnancy on these disorders is poorly characterised. We report a case of SS first manifesting in pregnancy with challenges in diagnosis and management and a poor clinical outcome, and a case of MMN manifesting in pregnancy then relapsing in a subsequent pregnancy. A summary of other cases in the literature and the postulated underlying immune mechanisms is presented.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Autoimmune Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Brain / pathology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Dysarthria
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Methotrexate / therapeutic use
  • Muscle Weakness
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / diagnosis*
  • Pregnancy Complications / drug therapy
  • Susac Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Susac Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Susac Syndrome / immunology

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Methotrexate