RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Severe alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency and pregnancy
JF European Respiratory Journal
JO Eur Respir J
FD European Respiratory Society
SP 1492
OP 1494
DO 10.1034/j.1399-3003.1999.13f40.x
VO 13
IS 6
A1 OJ Dempsey
A1 DJ Godden
A1 PD Martin
A1 PJ Danielian
YR 1999
UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/13/6/1492.abstract
AB 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.