Sickle cell E hemoglobinopathy and pregnancy.

The incidence of E hemoglobinopathies has been increasing in the United States. This is the first known case report of hemoglobin S/E in pregnancy. Management was based on the similarities of the S/E and S/beta-thalassemia hemoglobinopathies, and included partial exchange transfusion. Complications included fetal distress, congenital hydrocephalus, and cleft lip and palate. It appears that S/E and E/beta-thalassemia hemoglobinopathies may entail increased perinatal risks, but that favorable pregnancy outcomes may be anticipated with homozygous hemoglobin E or hemoglobin E trait.