Tumors of the neuraxis and neuraxial sheaths during pregnancy (excluding tumors of the sellar region).

An association between central nervous system neoplasm and pregnancy is unc ommon although its frequency is underestimated. The most commonly observed tumors are acoustic neuromas, meningiomas and gliomas. The interactions bet ween these tumors and pregnancy is not well known: Pregnancy could affect tumor growth by: activating tumor growth by stimulating receptors; increasing the peritumoral edema; favoring immunotolerance dire to pregnancy. Steroid hormone receptors and their therapeutic significance are described here, focusing particularly in meningiomas. Central nervous system tumors do not effect the progress of pregnancy per s e brit do the therapeutic implications. The clinical aspects are the same a s in non-pregnant women. MRI appears to be the most adapted imaging techniq ue. Neurosurgical guidelines are also described with emphasis on symptomatic th erapeutics, especially for seizure. Attitudes concerning the nature of the rumor and time of pregnancy are then discussed. The obstetrical attitude sh ould be therapeutic abortion or delivery, with cesarean if necessary. Prognosis is getting better for the child and mother alike, but still remai ns poor.