TY - JOUR T1 - Severe alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency and pregnancy JF - European Respiratory Journal JO - Eur Respir J SP - 1492 LP - 1494 DO - 10.1034/j.1399-3003.1999.13f40.x VL - 13 IS - 6 AU - OJ Dempsey AU - DJ Godden AU - PD Martin AU - PJ Danielian Y1 - 1999/06/01 UR - http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/13/6/1492.abstract N2 - This case study describes a successful pregnancy in a 27-yr-old patient with severe emphysema, secondary to alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency, genotype PiZZ. Despite significant respiratory compromise, more severe than previously reported, no complications ensued. Maternal pulmonary function did not deteriorate significantly until the 32nd week of pregnancy, with an elective Caesarean section being performed during the 37th week. This experience suggests that even severe maternal airflow obstruction is, in itself, not an absolute contra-indication to pregnancy. Pre-pregnancy multidisciplinary counselling is likely to be helpful in these patients, including frank discussion on the risks of pregnancy, the prospects of successful completion and the mother's future prognosis in relation to caring for the child. ER -