Mutation in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene might be a risk factor for cerebrovascular disease in peripartum and under oral contraceptive use

Nine women (age 22-43 years) with cerebrovascular diseases (CVD) related to pregnancy, puerperium or contraceptive use were studied. Five were pregnan t, 2 were post partum and 2 were taking oral contraceptives. All underwent a complete etiological examination including assessment for the thermolabil e C677T mutation in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene mu tation. Three of the 9 patients were homozygotic for the C677T MTHFR mutati on, and 3 were heterozygotic. In these 6 patients, no other etiology could be found. Mutation in the thermolabile MTHFR gene might be an important cau se for CVD related to peripartum or contraceptive use. Copyright (C) 2001 S . Karger AG, Basel.