Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. TNF inhibitors are effective in the treatment of signs and symptoms of the disease although their safety during pregnancy is debated.
Two cases of women with rheumatoid arthritis in complete remission of the disease with etanercept who decided to continue the therapy throughout their pregnancy are presented. A longitudinal evaluation of the disease activity showed a satisfactory control and good pregnancy outcomes were obtained. A flare of the disease after delivery was not observed.
Etanercept seems to be safe during pregnancy and lactation. A good control of the activity of the disease was reported throughout the pregnancy and during puerperium, when a reactivation of rheumatoid arthritis is often observed.