Symptomatic cerebral cavernomas in pregnancy: a series of 6 cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Objective: To present our experience of symptomatic cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) in pregnancy and to review the literature on the topic.

Methods: We retrospectively collected a case series of symptomatic CCMs during pregnancy or the puerperium. A literature search was performed to identify all similar reports.

Results: We collected 16 cases of symptomatic CCMs. Haemorrhage occurred in 10 patients. Two patients opted for termination of pregnancy. Delivery occurred preterm in four cases, in only one case due to neurological symptoms at 30 weeks’ gestation. Caesarean section was performed in 9 cases; concern over CCM was the indication for delivery in eight of these cases. Four out of 16 patients underwent neurosurgery, three during pregnancy.

Conclusion: Symptomatic CCMs seldom require neurosurgery either during or after pregnancy and are not associated with preterm delivery.

• Cerebral cavernous malformations
• pregnancy outcome
• symptoms