Leukemia during pregnancy.

Abstract

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE: To review the literature on pregnancy and leukemia and present a case report that describes the effects of cancer treatment on a developing fetus. DATA SOURCES: Published articles, book chapters, personal observation. DATA SYNTHESIS: A diagnosis of acute myelogenous leukemia requires urgent initiation of intensive treatment. During pregnancy, chemotherapy treatment is determined by gestational development and the woman's general health status. CONCLUSIONS: Babies born to leukemic mothers treated after the first trimester rarely are affected by the disease. Meticulous medical and nursing management is critical to ensure that treatment and side effects do not adversely affect the baby or the patient. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Goals of care are to prevent bleeding, infection, injury, and premature delivery; to assist the patient and family in coping with a new diagnosis, alteration in role performance, and body image changes; and to maintain adequate nutritional status.