Is there a known genetic basis for TM, NMO and ADEM?
Should this impact a woman’s decision to become pregnant? No specific studies have been done to determine if there is a genetic link to TM, NMO, or ADEM. In studies done on another demyelinating disease, Multiple Sclerosis, a familial tendency has been seen. If a genetic risk does exist, it would only involve an extremely small increase in the absolute risk of developing TM, NMO, or ADEM, as compared to the general population. The chances that a parent with one of these conditions will have a child similarly affected is extremely rare. Is preconception counseling recommended for women with TM and other rare neurologic diseases? Yes, preconception counseling with a perinatologist is recommended. A perinatologist is a physician who has completed a fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine. A high-risk obstetrician is the same as a perinatologist. However, be aware that some obstetricians refer to themselves as “high-risk” without having completed any additional training. It is important to k
