Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria: Considerations for optimal pregnancy care. A case report.

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All Authors

Winton, C.
Dodd, E.
Ciantar, E.
Muus, P.
Griffin, M.

LTHT Author

Winton, Claire
Dodd, Eleanor
Ciantar, Etienne
Muus, Petra
Griffin, Morag

LTHT Department

Women's Services
Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Obstetrics
Oncology
Haematology

Non Medic

Publication Date

2026

Item Type

Journal Article

Language

Subject

ANTIBODIES, MONOCLONAL , HAEMOGLOBINURIA , HAEMOGLOBINURIA , PREGNANCY

Subject Headings

Abstract

Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare haematological disorder characterised by an acquired mutation in haematopoietic stem cells leading to intravascular haemolysis and thrombotic events. In untreated women, pregnancy amplifies the risks of these manifestations, leading to increased maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. In the UK, eculizumab is the only approved treatment for PNH in pregnancy. Eculizumab was found to be safe in pregnancy and reduces PNH-related complications. Multidisciplinary team care between haematologists specialising in PNH, obstetricians, anaesthetists and the midwifery team remains crucial. This report describes a case of a woman with known PNH successfully treated with eculizumab in her first pregnancy. She had a vaginal delivery and suffered no complications associated with PNH. The woman and her child are well one year post-delivery. We discuss the pre-conception, antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal management steps to provide optimal care to a woman with PNH in pregnancy.

Journal

Obstetric Medicine