THROMBOCYTOPENIA AND PREGNANCY

Gestational thrombocytopenia (GT) is commonly observed in pregnancies with otherwise limited obstetric and hematologic complications. However, few data are available on the natural history of the disease and on the recurrence of thrombocytopenia in subsequent pregnancies. 37 consecutive patients with GT were enrolled in a prospective study, with a total of 36 pregnancies observed. Vaginal delivery was carried out in 33/41 (80%); two patients were transfused with packed red cells for obstetric hemorrhage (post-partum uterine atony). Mothers and their related foetuses- newborns were evaluated retrospectively for symptoms and/or signs of external and internal haemorrhage throughout pregnancy and early puerperium, even in relationship with mode of delivery (caesarean section versus spontaneous vaginal delivery). This study confirms, in accordance to literature, that all observed cases of GT have an uncomplicated course with no related perinatal and maternal morbidity even in patients with initial platelet count < 75.000/ml regardless of the route of delivery.