Neuromyelitis Optica in Pregnancy: Narrative Review

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.15953226210112

• Palavras-chave: neuromyelitis optica; pregnancy; autoimmune diseases; high-risk pregnancy.

• Keywords: neuromyelitis optica; pregnancy; autoimmune diseases; high-risk pregnancy.

• Abstract:

  Neuromyelitis optica (NMO), currently recognized within the spectrum of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD), is an inflammatory autoimmune disease of the central nervous system characterized mainly by optic neuritis and longitudinally extensive myelitis. Its predominance in women of reproductive age makes pregnancy a period of particular clinical relevance, due to the increased risk of outbreaks and the therapeutic limitations imposed by pregnancy and lactation. The objective of this narrative review is to synthesize the main evidence on the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, therapeutic management, and maternal and fetal outcomes of NMOSD during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The available data suggest increased disease activity, especially in the postpartum period, highlighting the importance of reproductive planning and multidisciplinary follow-up.