Herceptin (trastuzumab) therapy during pregnancy: association with reversible anhydramnios.
BACKGROUND
Herceptin (trastuzumab), a new a chemotherapeutic agent, is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 protein. There is no reported experience with use of this agent during pregnancy and possible effects on the fetus.


METHODS
A patient with breast cancer was treated with Herceptin during pregnancy. This treatment was associated with anhydramnios, which resolved slowly after the drug was discontinued.


CONCLUSIONS
Although listed as a category B drug, experience with Herceptin in human pregnancy is limited, and it should be used with caution. Investigation of the role of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 protein in the embryonic kidney may further our understanding of amniotic fluid dynamics.
Watson
William J
WJ
Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA. Watson.William@mayo.edu
D000328:Adult; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D018270:Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D016104:Oligohydramnios / Q000139:chemically induced*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011252:Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000068878:Trastuzumab
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000068878:Trastuzumab