07-21-2009, 11:32 PM
You are asked to consult on a 31-year-old pregnant woman who is 14 weeks pregnant and who has multiple sclerosis (MS). She was diagnosed with MS when she was 24 years old. She has had two relapses since her first episode and she has had complete recovery after each relapse. She had a normal spontaneous vaginal delivery 3 years ago, followed by a relapse postpartum. She has no other medical problems. She has never had surgery. She takes no medications and is allergic to penicillin. Her physical examination is normal for a woman at 14 weeks™ gestation. Part of your counseling to this patient should include which of the following statements?
A. MS is likely to worsen during the pregnancy
B. MS is often unchanged during the pregnancy and worsens postpartum
C. Termination of pregnancy is recommended for pregnant patients with MS
D. Treatment with high-dose steroids throughout pregnancy is recommended
E. Treatment with low-dose steroids throughout pregnancy is recommended
A. MS is likely to worsen during the pregnancy
B. MS is often unchanged during the pregnancy and worsens postpartum
C. Termination of pregnancy is recommended for pregnant patients with MS
D. Treatment with high-dose steroids throughout pregnancy is recommended
E. Treatment with low-dose steroids throughout pregnancy is recommended