Scripta Medica (Jan 2015)
The combined screening test in the first trimester of pregnancy and preeclampsia
Abstract
Introduction: The combined screening test in the first trimester of pregnancy and determination of biochemical markers, pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and free beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (free ß-hCG) were measured to assess the risk for developing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy after 20 weeks of gestation. Preeclampsia (PE) is the leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Aim of the study: To present obtained results of biochemical markers (PAPP-A and free ß-hCG) taken from a serum of pregnant women with preeclampsia in the first trimester of pregnancy and to examine the correlation between biochemical markers, age of the pregnant woman and body mass index (BMI) with preeclampsia. Patients and methods: This retrospective study included 70 pregnant women in two groups: (1) preeclampsia group (n=40), (2) control group (n=30). Results: In the preeclampsia group, the mean value of free ß-hCG was 37.18±20.64 IU/L and for PAPP-A 2711.15±1788.60 mIU/L with a statistical significance of p=0.007, compared to the control group. The mean value of body mass index (BMI) was 26.18±4.93 kg/m² and for age 31.53±5.00 years. In the control group, the mean value of free ß-hCG was 29.97±10.39 IU/L and for PAPP-A 3411.30±1227.59 mIU/L. The mean value of body mass index (BMI) was 23.47±4.09 kg/m² and for age of pregnant women 28.10±4.57 years. Conclusion: There is a significant association between the low level of biochemical marker PAPP-A in serum and the risk for PE. The difference of values of free ß-hCG between the groups tested was not statistically significant. Maternal age and body mass index (BMI) are confirmed risk factors for development of PE. The combined screening test contributes to the prevention of PE, with the goal of improving health of pregnant women.
