Ocular pathologies emerging in pregnancy.

Abstract

ABSTRACT… Objectives:To determine ocular pathologies that appear in pregnant women with no history of ocular or systemic disease prior to conception. . Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty pregnant females with no history of previous ocular or systemic co morbidity were included in study. After obtaining informed consent detailed ocular and medical history was taken and complete ocular examination was done. Results: Mean age of the participant female was 24.7 years (Range 19-40 years). Four of them (3.33%) had bilateral optic disc edema, 2 of them had central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) and one female had unilateral macular hole. Conclusions: Ocular pathologies emerging in pregnancy are not uncommon and should not be overlooked. Pregnant women with ocular complaints should undergo a thorough ocular and systemic examination along with necessary investigations so that the pathological eye changes and associated systemic diseases could be managed timely and properly.

A Narrative Review on Neuro-Ophthalmological Manifestations That May Occur during Pregnancy

“…Certain pre-existing eye conditions are known to either deteriorate or improve during this period, though these changes are typically temporary. What further complicates diagnosis and management is the limitation that ophthalmic medications commonly prescribed for individuals who are not pregnant cannot be used in the same manner during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to associated risks to the fetus [6,[14][15][16].…”

“…), pre-existing eye conditions that are influenced by pregnancy (including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and neuro-ophthalmic issues), and eye manifestations of systemic diseases. These systemic diseases include conditions specifically related to pregnancy, like preeclampsia/eclampsia/Sheehan syndrome, and those more common during pregnancy, such as idiopathic intracranial hypertension and disseminated intravascular coagulation [6,[14][15][16].…”

“…These corneal curvature changes may induce a myopic shift, temporary loss of accommodation, and reduced amplitude. Consequently, it is advisable to avoid altering prescriptions during pregnancy and breastfeeding for several months and refrain from refractive surgery during this period [14][15][16].…”

“…Notably, antiglaucoma medications carry teratogenic risks and are contraindicated for pregnant women. Therefore, laser trabeculoplasty is recommended as a means to manage intraocular pressure before a glaucoma patient plans pregnancy [14][15][16][17][18].…”

“…Ocular complications often forecast a positive prognosis in pregnancy-related hypertension. Nevertheless, regular assessments, timely identification, and swift intervention are crucial for ensuring favorable outcomes for both the mother and the eventual fetal well-being [15,[39][40][41][42].…”