National cohort of patients with emphysema and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

Background: The natural history and optimal therapeutic management of emphysema associated with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency are poorly understood. The purpose of this cohort of patients with emphysema associated with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is to describe their characteristics and to study the factors associated with the evolution of their pathology. Materials and methods: It is a multicentre, prospective, cohort study including all the patients in metropolitan France with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency associated with emphysema (diagnosed by CT scanning) and an obstructive ventilatory defect. All respiratory physicians will be approached. Patients meeting the inclusion criteria will be followed up every 6 months for 5 years. Clinical and spirometric data as well as those relating to quality of life will becollected. The principal criterion will be FEV1; the secondary criteria: quality of life, exacerbations requiring hospitalistion and mortality. Expected results and viewpoints: 300-500 patients are expected to be included. At the conclusion incorporation of this cohort into AIR (Alpha-antitrypsin International Registry) will increase the statistical power. This study could also provide the base for prospective trials and research projects.