Neuraxial anaesthesia in the parturient with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the most commonly acquired neurological diseases in young adults. Due to its pathological process, anaesthetic considerations in parturient women can be difficult and must include the safety of both the mother and foetus. This case report describes the management of pain relief during labour and subsequently a Category 2 caesarean section of a 30-year-old woman (pregnant for the first time or G1P0) with MS, with epidural anaesthesia. A multidisciplinary team approach, and early planning was essential for the success of this case. This case report indicates that epidural anaesthesia is safe in the parturient with MS during labour and that there is no association between epidural anaesthesia and relapse rates of MS in these individuals.