FRI0252 Behcet's Disease and Pregnancy: What is the Relationship?

Behcet's disease and pregnancy: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Behcet's disease (BD) is a rare inflammatory, multisystemic, autoimmune disorder with unknown origin. BD is included in vasculitic disorders with a more frequent onset characterized by oral and genital ulcers associated with eye inflammation. However, BD has several clinical manifestations, and the most fearful complication is thrombotic involvement. BD occurs mainly in women of childbearing age, therefore it is important to identify the potential risks of pregnancy on the mother and fetus.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

The aim of our review is to identify, through the study of existing literature, the possible consequences of pregnancy on the course of this disease, the potential risks for the mother and fetus in gestation period and in puerperium, in order to identify a correct pregnancy management in patient affected by BD.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Currently, there are few studies that have analyzed the consequences of the disease on the course of pregnancy and pregnancy on the activity of the pathology. Some authors believe that pregnancy may worsen the symptoms of the disease, while others may even improve the course. Many authors believe that thromboembolic events are the main problems for which focus attention on these patients, both in pregnancy and in puerperium. Different opinions exist about pregnancy complications and neonatal outcomes, although events such as abortion, intrauterine growth restriction and C-section appear to have a higher incidence in BD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

There are no contraindications for the onset of pregnancy in BD patients. In most cases pregnancy can improve the course of the disease. However, in view of the potential adverse events, a thorough follow-up of the pregnancy is necessary in order to minimize any risks to the mother and fetus.

Behcet's disease

Behçet's disease (BD) is a chronic relapsing and remitting vasculitis of unknown aetiology. It has the capacity to affect almost all organ systems because of its potential to involve both arteries and veins of all sizes, resulting in significant organ-threatening morbidity and mortality. Traditionally known as the 'silk road' disease, it has a worldwide occurrence. The aetiopathological mechanisms of disease development in BD remain poorly understood, but genome wide studies show human leukocyte antigen and non-human leukocyte antigen associations. Environmental influences and genetic factors may have a role in the aetiopathogenetic mechanisms that lead to development of the disease, indicating the autoimmune and auto-inflammatory nature of BD. The evidence base for treatment is limited but new knowledge is emerging and current treatment options range from symptomatic treatment, through to non-biological and biological immunosuppressive drugs, to cover the spectrum of clinical manifestations.