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Pregnancy and liver transplantation
S A Laifer1, M J Darby, V P Scantlebury
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Pregnancy after liver transplantation is associated with good perinatal outcomes but carries risks like preeclampsia and preterm delivery. Liver allograft function and survival remain unaffected by pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Transplantation Medicine
- Perinatology
Background:
- Liver transplantation is a life-saving procedure for end-stage liver disease.
- Increasingly, women of childbearing age undergo liver transplantation, raising questions about pregnancy post-transplant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the risks and outcomes of pregnancy in women who have received an orthotopic liver allograft.
- To assess the impact of pregnancy on liver graft function and survival.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of eight pregnant women who had undergone orthotopic liver transplantation.
- Analysis of pregnancy outcomes, maternal complications, and graft status.
Main Results:
- Seven of eight patients conceived after transplantation, with six live births.
- Increased risks observed: worsening hypertension (5/7), preeclampsia (5/7), and preterm delivery (mean gestational age 32.8 weeks).
- One case of acute allograft rejection successfully treated; no adverse effect on overall graft survival.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy in liver transplant recipients is feasible with generally good perinatal outcomes.
- Close monitoring and multidisciplinary care involving transplant specialists and perinatologists are crucial.
- Pregnancy does not appear to negatively impact liver allograft function or long-term survival.