The effects of iodoprophylaxis on thyroid size during pregnancy

Article Abstract:

One of the effects of pregnancy is an increase in size of the thyroid gland, once thought to be associated with the condition itself. However, it is possible that thyroid enlargement results from an iodine deficiency caused by increased urinary excretion of iodine during pregnancy. To learn more about this issue, and about the effects of supplemental iodine on thyroid size, 35 pregnant women were studied who lived in a moderately iodine-deficient part of Italy. Seventeen women received iodide salt supplements each day (group A), while the remaining subjects formed group B. The women underwent ultrasonography to determine thyroid volume and urine samples were measured for iodine levels at regular intervals throughout their pregnancies. Results showed no differences between the groups at their first evaluation, in the first trimester of pregnancy. However, at the second and third examinations, group A women had higher levels of urinary iodine. These women's thyroid glands did not enlarge during pregnancy, whereas the thyroid gland volume of group B women increased significantly (on average, by 16 percent). The results indicate that enlargement of the thyroid gland is not a normal consequence of pregnancy, but a sign of a pathologic condition. Since insufficient iodine is associated increased risk for hypothyroidism (deficiency in thyroid secretion), both the mother and the fetus, pregnant women from iodine-deficient regions should receive iodine supplementation. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Abnormalities, Measurement, Physiological aspects, Pregnancy, Iodine deficiency diseases, Thyroid gland, Iodine in the body, Iodine (Nutrient)

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Pregnancy in a patient with treated Wilson's disease: a case report

Article Abstract:

Pregnancy among women with Wilson's disease, a genetic condition associated with abnormal copper metabolism, commonly has an unhappy outcome; however, treatment with penicillamine (a drug used to treat metal poisoning) can improve the prognosis. The case report is presented of a woman with this condition who underwent one abortion, then wished to become pregnant again a few years later. Since the patient appeared compliant and did not have signs of liver deterioration, penicillamine treatment was instituted and genetic counseling offered. The risk, in this patient's case, that her child would inherit the disorder was between 1/200 and 1/400. Pregnancy occurred soon thereafter, was uneventful, and led to the birth of a healthy infant. The results indicate that certain Wilson's disease patients can undergo a successful pregnancy. The potential for penicillamine to cause birth defects has not been determined: it is possible that a safer drug, such as triethylene tetramine dihydrochloride (trientine), would be preferable. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Evaluation, Chelation therapy, Wilson's disease, Penicillamine

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Safety and use of autologous blood donation during the third trimester of pregnancy

Article Abstract:

In view of the dangers associated with transmitting blood infectious diseases, including acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, during transfusion, many pregnant women are choosing to pre-donate their own blood to provide for possible necessary transfusion. This study measured differences in the degree of adverse reactions that occurred during blood donation among both nonpregnant women and mothers and fetuses. The difference in reactions between the two groups was minimal. The effect of blood donation on the fetus was lower than expected. Also studied were the effects on the mother and fetus of transfusions of pre-donated blood and blood from other donors. Of the patients requiring a transfusion, placenta previa patients (where the placenta is abnormally attached to the uterus, causing bleeding) benefit the most. Pregnant women having transfusion reactions were more likely to have them closer to the expected time of delivery. The pre-donating of the patients' own blood during pregnancy was considered safe and should be done prior to two weeks before delivery.

Blood donors, Blood donation, Blood transfusion, Autologous, Autologous blood transfusion, Blood diseases, Hematologic diseases

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