Ann E Quinton1, Colleen-M Cook, Michael J Peek. 1. Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Penrith, NSW, Australia. aquinton@med.usyd.edu.au
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To develop normal ranges of endothelial function in normal human pregnancy to use as a screening test for preeclampsia. METHODS: In this longitudinal study, women were studied five times during pregnancy and once postpartum using flow-mediated dilatation (FMD). FMD is a noninvasive ultrasound technique used to assess endothelial function. Healthy nonpregnant women were controls. RESULTS: FMD increased non-significantly in pregnancy until 32 weeks, when it decreased significantly at 36+ weeks (n = 47). CONCLUSION: The fall in FMD in the third trimester has not been previously reported. This indicates the importance of gestational age when assessing FMD as a screening test for preeclampsia.
OBJECTIVE: To develop normal ranges of endothelial function in normal human pregnancy to use as a screening test for preeclampsia. METHODS: In this longitudinal study, women were studied five times during pregnancy and once postpartum using flow-mediated dilatation (FMD). FMD is a noninvasive ultrasound technique used to assess endothelial function. Healthy nonpregnant women were controls. RESULTS:FMD increased non-significantly in pregnancy until 32 weeks, when it decreased significantly at 36+ weeks (n = 47). CONCLUSION: The fall in FMD in the third trimester has not been previously reported. This indicates the importance of gestational age when assessing FMD as a screening test for preeclampsia.
Authors: Nils Thomas Songstad; Maria C Serrano; Vasilis Sitras; David Johansen; Davis Johansen; Kirsti Ytrehus; Ganesh Acharya Journal: PLoS One Date: 2014-07-09 Impact factor: 3.240