Alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency. Severe obstructive lung disease and pregnancy

The case of a 37-year-old primigravida with severe obstructive lung disease and alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency is reported. Serial pulmonary function studies and arterial blood gases were obtained during the antenatal and postpartum periods. Intrauterine fetal growth was monitored with serial ultrasonic fetal biparietal diameter determinations. Serial oxytocin challenge tests were used to monitor uteroplacental function. Aggressive chest physiotherapy was used to maintain good maternal bronchopulmonary hygiene. A normal female infant was delivered vaginally at 38 weeks' gestation following an uneventful labor. The available obstetric literature regarding the outcome of pregnancy in patients with obstructive lung disease and cystic fibrosis is reviewed. This literature suggests that pregnancy in a patient with severe obstructive lung disease should be considered a medical indication for therapeutic abortion. Successful delivery of this patient with severe obstructive lung disease and alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency suggests that these conditions are not a contraindication to successful outcome of preganncy for both mother and child.