The Western journal of medicine
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From 1976 to 1983, the adult respiratory distress syndrome occurred in 14 patients during pregnancy or within a month postpartum. There were 8 survivors, giving a 43% mortality. All but 2 patients had obstetric-related precipitating events--labor problems, infections, eclampsia-toxemia, and obstetric hemorrhages. ⋯ Infections were documented in 8 patients, 6 of whom had obstetric foci. There is a lack of information regarding the adult respiratory distress syndrome in this patient group. Though uncommon, it can cause substantial mortality and morbidity.