FETO-MATERNAL MICROCHIMERISM – A BLESSING OR RATHER A CURSE

Abstract

The aim. To assess the effects of Feto-Maternal Microchimerism (FMc) on maternal health, not only during pregnancy but also long after parturition. Thereby, emphasizing the effects on autoimmune diseases, and the involvement in the promotion as well as the possible protection of cancer. Materials and methods. Feto maternal microchimerism, its acquisition, and its effects on maternal health were analyzed through a comprehensive literature search on PubMed. The literature review included 24 publications: 5 of them examined the long-term effects of FMc on maternal health, not only during pregnancy, but also after delivery, and evaluated the factors promoting the transfer of fetal cells to the mother’s body; 12 studies analyzed the effect of FMc on the development of cancers in women and 7 on the development of autoimmune diseases. Results and conclusions. Pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia, and diabetes mellitus, especially when poorly controlled, as well as delivery by cesarean section and surgically managed miscarriages favor FMc acquisition. Additionally, increased gestational age might also play a role in greater fetal cell transfer due to increased fetal and placental volume. Findings present a link between placental dysfunction, as well as situations increasing feto-maternal hemorrhage, to be responsible for increased FMc. FMc is associated with a potential protective role in breast cancer, in uterine cancer development, as well as in thyroid cancer, presenting a higher chance of remission and improved prognosis. Contrary to that, it is suggested to increase the risk of glioblastoma, as well as colon cancer. Clinical studies provide contrasting effects of FMc on autoimmune diseases, with most showing a causative and exacerbating effect. Results demonstrated an increased risk of autoimmune thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus correlating with an increased incidence of FMc.