Abstract
Gitelman's Syndrome (GS) is a rare autosomal recessive salt-wasting nephropathy, classically characterized by hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalciuria, metabolic alkalosis and low blood pressure. Fatigue, muscle weakness and muscle paralysis are common symptoms. Besides the typical electrolyte disturbances, others laboratory findings include hyperreninemia and secondary hyperaldosteronism. Bilateral nephrocalcinosis may occur. The treatment consists of potassium replacement and use of aldosterone antagonists. The best approach to pregnant women with GS is yet to be defined. However, we emphasize the need for ions supplementation, weight control as a clinical tool for assessing the water balance, and frequent monitoring of the fetus and amniotic fluid levels. The surgical risk associated with cesarean section in a patient with GS is not yet defined. Despite the risks related to symptomatic episodes of hypokalemia/hypomagnesemia, GS has a good prognosis when treated properly. Pregnancy imposes the need for more intensive control of the disease, but has a good prognosis for the mother and neonate.
Keywords:
gitelman syndrome; hypokalemia; pregnancy