Study of serum markers alfa fetoprotein, β-hcg and microalbuminuria as a earlypredictors of pre-eclampsia

Abstract

Background: Preeclampsia is a serious blood pressure disorder developing after 20 weeks of pregnancy diagnosed by high blood pressure and often proteinuria or organ damage. Without management it can lead to seizures or fatal complication. It can affect both mother and fetus. The early identification of patients with an increased risk for preeclampsia is therefore one of the most important goals in obstetrics. Today, several markers may offer the potential to be used, most likely in a combinatory analysis, as predictors or diagnostic tools. With the advancement of science we aim to find out an optimum method to predict adverse maternal and fetal effects of pre-eclampsia. This will help us in deciding about the treatment modality for pre-eclampsia. Aims and objectives: The Aim of this study to determine the level of β hcg, Alpha Foetoprotein and microalbuminuria in serial samples of antenatal subjects from early pregnancy to full term pregnancy. Material and Method: This is a prospective observational study conducted on 96 women who were attending antenatal OPD and wards of Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, R. D. Gardi Medical College in first trimester. Detailed history was taken and routine investigation was done. Along with that, special investigations i.e. alfafeto-protein, β-hcg & microalbuminuria were done. All these subjects were followed in 2^nd& 3^rd trimester and all these investigations were taken serially. By analyzing these investigations we could predict the pre-eclampsia at its earlier stages and prevent the maternal & fetal complications. Result: We found significant association between high serum AFP in first, second & third trimester and subsequent development of PE [p<.05]. Mean values of AFP 61.7 ng/ml [p<.001] in first, 97.87 ng/ml [p<.001] in second and 163.57 ng/ml [p<.01] in third trimester.Our data also support a significant association between elevated first, second and third trimester microalbuminuria, β-hcg level and development of PE.

Keywords: Preeclampsia, β hcg , Alpha Foetoprotein, microalbuminuria, hypertension.