[Increased plasma C-reactive protein in a pregnant woman with multiple sclerosis: corticotherapy or not ?]

Ann Biol Clin (Paris). 2010 Mar-Apr;68(2):243-7. doi: 10.1684/abc.2010.0406.
[Article in French]

Abstract

We report the case of a 26 years old pregnant woman at 17 weeks amenorrhea, suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS) for 6 years, hospitalized for a relapse. Treatment of MS relapses is based on high dose corticosteroid infusions, A current infection would represent a contra-indication to this treatment. In our patient, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were moderately increased (38 mg/L). This raised the question of the physiological CRP levels in pregnant woman. After reviewing the literature, we noticed that increased CRP levels may be found in normal pregnancy, however no consensual cut-off value is admitted up to date. Procalcitonin measurement may contribute to therapeutical decision, even if increased levels have also been reported during normal pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / adverse effects
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Adult
  • C-Reactive Protein / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / blood
  • Inflammation / etiology
  • Multiple Sclerosis / blood*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / complications
  • Multiple Sclerosis / drug therapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / blood*
  • Reference Values

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • C-Reactive Protein