Abstract

Background: Anticoagulation of pregnant woman with mechanical prosthetic heart valves is associated with significant maternal and fetal risks.
Methods: We describe a case of dorsal midline dysplasia in a fetus at 11 weeks’ gestation. The mother was receiving warfarin therapy at a dose of 7.5 mg daily following a mechanical mitral valve replacement for rheumatic heart disease.
Results: Histological assessment revealed a meningocele with hemorrhage. No cerebellar or cerebral tissue was present in the skull confirming anencephaly.
Conclusions: A multidisciplinary approach in pregnant women with mechanical prosthetic heart valves is essential in order to improve fetal outcomes.

DOI: 10.7754/Clin.Lab.2020.201013