Evaluation of fetal stress in preeclamptic patients

Abstract

Objective Previous studies have established the association between preeclampsia (PE)-induced stress on fetus and elevated 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels (17-OHP) of which known as a stress markers. The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between these markers that were analyzed via cord blood with the severity of PE. Methods Consecutive PE women who were admitted to Dr. Lütfi Kırdar Training and Research Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics from August 2009 to December 2009 were recruited. Uncomplicated pregnant women admitted at the same period consisted the control group. Umbilical blood samples were collected from umbilical artery immediately after birth and 17-OHP analyzed. Results The study group consisted of 40 mild PE (n=12) and severe PE patients (n=28) and the control group consisted of 35 patients. Maternal age and body mass index were similar between the study groups, but the fetuses in the severe PE group had a smaller mean gestational age and mean birth weight (p=0.001). Umbilical cord 17-OHP levels were statistically significantly lower in the severe PE patients than the controls [Control group=12.5±4.6 (n=35); mild PE=10.3±6 (n=12, p=0.24), severe PE=9.6±5.2 (n=28, p=0.019)]. Although the patients with mild PE had lower 17-OHP levels, they were not statistically significant (p=0.827). Conclusion In our study, it is found that there is no association between PE severity and the cord blood levels of 17-OHP. The effect of early intervention that prevent feto-maternal complications may lead to normal or low levels of these markers of which was found increased in cord blood of preeclamptic patients in previous studies.