Prevention of preeclampsia with aspirin

The Role of Acetylsalicylic Acid in the Prevention of Pre-Eclampsia, Fetal Growth Restriction, and Preterm Birth

BACKGROUND

Recent studies suggest that low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) can lower pregnancy-associated morbidity.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent publications that were retrieved by a selective search in PubMed, with special attention to systematic reviews, metaanalyses, and randomized controlled trials.

RESULTS

Current meta-analyses document a reduction of the risk of the occurrence of pre-eclampsia (RR 0.85, NNT 50), as well as beneficial effects on the rates of preterm birth (RR 0.80, NNT 37), fetal growth restriction (RR 0.82, NNT 77), and perinatal death (RR 0.79, NNT 167). Moreover, there is evidence that ASA raises the rate of live births after a prior spontaneous abortion, while also lowering the rate of spontaneous preterm births (RR 0.89, NNT 67). The prerequisites for therapeutic success are an adequate ASA dose, early initiation of ASA, and the identification of women at risk of pregnancy-associated morbidity. Side effects of treatment with ASA in this patient group are rare and mainly involve bleeding in connection with the pregnancy (RR 0.87, NNH 200).

CONCLUSION

ASA use during pregnancy has benefits beyond reducing the risk of pre-eclampsia. The indications for taking ASA during pregnancy may be extended at some point in the future; at present, in view of the available evidence, it is still restricted to high-risk pregnancies.

Leveraging quality improvement to promote health equity: standardization of prenatal aspirin recommendations

OBJECTIVE

Aspirin (ASA) is recommended for patients at elevated risk of preeclampsia. Limited data exists on adherence to guidelines for ASA prescription. This project evaluates the implementation of a standardized approach to ASA prescription in an academic OB/Gyn practice.

METHODS

We implemented a quality improvement project to evaluate compliance with the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for ASA to prevent preeclampsia. Pre-intervention, we analyzed prescription adherence at 201 New Obstetric (NOB) visits. A multi-step intervention was then implemented at 199 NOB visits. Nurses utilized a checklist created from USPSTF guidelines to identify high-risk patients, defined as having ≥1 high-risk factor or ≥2 moderate-risk factors. ASA orders were placed by physicians. A Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle was performed, and changes implemented. Primary outcome was percent of patients screened at RN intake visit (goal = 90%). Secondary outcomes were percent of patients who screened positive that received the ASA recommendation (goal = 80%) and percent screened and recommended by race.

RESULTS

Pre-intervention, 47% of patients met criteria for ASA and 28% received a documented recommendation. Post-intervention, 99% were screened. Half (48%) met criteria for an ASA recommendation and 79% received a recommendation (p = < 0.001). Rates of appropriate recommendation did not differ by Black (80%) vs. non-Black (79%) status (p = 0.25). Subsequent PDSA cycles for 12 months neared 100% RN screening rates. Physicians correctly recommended ASA 80-100% of the time.

CONCLUSION

It is feasible, sustainable and equitable to standardize screening and implementation of ASA to patients at high risk for preeclampsia. Providers can easily reproduce our processes to improve delivery of equitable and reliable preventative obstetric care.

Reassessing Preterm Birth Prevention After the Withdrawal of 17-α Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recently withdrawn approval for 17-α hydroxyprogesterone caproate for prevention of recurrent preterm birth, and recent studies have called into question benefits of the pessary in the setting of a short cervix. Obstetric health care professionals are once again left with limited remaining options for preterm birth prevention. This narrative review summarizes the best current evidence on the use of vaginal progesterone, low-dose aspirin, and cerclage for the prevention of preterm birth; attempts to distill possible lessons learned from studies of progesterone and pessary, as well as their implementation into practice; and highlights areas where inroads into preterm birth prevention may be possible outside of the progesterone-aspirin-cerclage paradigm.

Accuracy of placental growth factor alone or in combination with soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 or maternal factors in detecting preeclampsia in asymptomatic women in the second and third trimesters: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to: (1) identify all relevant studies reporting on the diagnostic accuracy of maternal circulating placental growth factor) alone or as a ratio with soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1), and of placental growth factor-based models (placental growth factor combined with maternal factors±other biomarkers) in the second or third trimester to predict subsequent development of preeclampsia in asymptomatic women; (2) estimate a hierarchical summary receiver-operating characteristic curve for studies reporting on the same test but different thresholds, gestational ages, and populations; and (3) select the best method to screen for preeclampsia in asymptomatic women during the second and third trimester of pregnancy by comparing the diagnostic accuracy of each method.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search was performed through MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform databases from January 1, 1985 to April 15, 2021.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Studies including asymptomatic singleton pregnant women at >18 weeks' gestation with risk of developing preeclampsia were evaluated. We included only cohort or cross-sectional test accuracy studies reporting on preeclampsia outcome, allowing tabulation of 2×2 tables, with follow-up available for >85%, and evaluating performance of placental growth factor alone, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1- placental growth factor ratio, or placental growth factor-based models. The study protocol was registered on the International Prospective Register Of Systematic Reviews (CRD 42020162460).

METHODS

Because of considerable intra- and interstudy heterogeneity, we computed the hierarchical summary receiver-operating characteristic plots and derived diagnostic odds ratios, β, θi, and Λ for each method to compare performances. The quality of the included studies was evaluated by the QUADAS-2 tool.

RESULTS

The search identified 2028 citations, from which we selected 474 studies for detailed assessment of the full texts. Finally, 100 published studies met the eligibility criteria for qualitative and 32 for quantitative syntheses. Twenty-three studies reported on performance of placental growth factor testing for the prediction of preeclampsia in the second trimester, including 16 (with 27 entries) that reported on placental growth factor test alone, 9 (with 19 entries) that reported on the soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1-placental growth factor ratio, and 6 (16 entries) that reported on placental growth factor-based models. Fourteen studies reported on performance of placental growth factor testing for the prediction of preeclampsia in the third trimester, including 10 (with 18 entries) that reported on placental growth factor test alone, 8 (with 12 entries) that reported on soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1-placental growth factor ratio, and 7 (with 12 entries) that reported on placental growth factor-based models. For the second trimester, Placental growth factor-based models achieved the highest diagnostic odds ratio for the prediction of early preeclampsia in the total population compared with placental growth factor alone and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1-placental growth factor ratio (placental growth factor-based models, 63.20; 95% confidence interval, 37.62-106.16 vs soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1-placental growth factor ratio, 6.96; 95% confidence interval, 1.76-27.61 vs placental growth factor alone, 5.62; 95% confidence interval, 3.04-10.38); placental growth factor-based models had higher diagnostic odds ratio than placental growth factor alone for the identification of any-onset preeclampsia in the unselected population (28.45; 95% confidence interval, 13.52-59.85 vs 7.09; 95% confidence interval, 3.74-13.41). For the third trimester, Placental growth factor-based models achieved prediction for any-onset preeclampsia that was significantly better than that of placental growth factor alone but similar to that of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1-placental growth factor ratio (placental growth factor-based models, 27.12; 95% confidence interval, 21.67-33.94 vs placental growth factor alone, 10.31; 95% confidence interval, 7.41-14.35 vs soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1-placental growth factor ratio, 14.94; 95% confidence interval, 9.42-23.70).

CONCLUSION

Placental growth factor with maternal factors ± other biomarkers determined in the second trimester achieved the best predictive performance for early preeclampsia in the total population. However, in the third trimester, placental growth factor-based models had predictive performance for any-onset preeclampsia that was better than that of placental growth factor alone but similar to that of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1-placental growth factor ratio. Through this meta-analysis, we have identified a large number of very heterogeneous studies. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop standardized research using the same models that combine serum placental growth factor with maternal factors ± other biomarkers to accurately predict preeclampsia. Identification of patients at risk might be beneficial for intensive monitoring and timing delivery.

First-trimester serum antiphosphatidylserine antibodies serve as candidate biomarkers for predicting pregnancy-induced hypertension

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore whether antiphosphatidylserine (aPS) antibodies play roles in the early prediction of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH).

METHODS

The serum levels of different isotypes of aPS antibodies were compared in women diagnosed with PIH (PIH group, n  = 30) and 1 : 1 matched normotensive controls (control group, n  = 30). All patients underwent frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles, and all serum samples were collected during 11-13 weeks of gestation. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn to analyze the predictive values of aPS antibodies for PIH.

RESULTS

The women who developed PIH after FET had higher serum optical density values (450 nm) of aPS immunoglobulin (Ig) A (1.31 ± 0.43 vs. 1.02 ± 0.51, P  = 0.022), aPS IgM (1.00 ± 0.34 vs. 0.87 ± 0.18, P  = 0.046), and aPS IgG (0.50 ± 0.12 vs. 0.34 ± 0.07, P  < 0.001) compared with the normotensive controls. The serum concentration of total IgG [48.29 ± 10.71 (g/dl) vs. 34.39 ± 11.62 (g/dl), P  < 0.001] was also higher in the PIH group compared with that in the control group. The aPS IgG alone [area under the curve (AUC): 0.913, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.842-0.985, P  < 0.001] and the combined analysis of aPS IgA, aPS IgM, aPS IgG, and total IgG (AUC: 0.944, 95% CI: 0.888-1.000, P  < 0.001) had high predictive values for PIH.

CONCLUSION

Serum aPS autoantibody levels during the first trimester of pregnancy are positively associated with the development of PIH. Further validation is needed to clearly identify the distinct contributions and underlying mechanisms for diagnostic applications of aPS autoantibodies in PIH prediction.

Care plan for individuals at risk for preeclampsia: shared approach to education, strategies for prevention, surveillance, and follow-up

Preeclampsia is a multisystemic disorder of pregnancy that affects 250,000 pregnant individuals in the United States and approximately 10 million worldwide per annum. Preeclampsia is associated with substantial immediate morbidity and mortality but also long-term morbidity for both mother and offspring. It is now clearly established that a low dose of aspirin given daily, beginning early in pregnancy modestly reduces the occurrence of preeclampsia. Low-dose aspirin seems safe, but because there is a paucity of information about long-term effects on the infant, it is not recommended for all pregnant individuals. Thus, several expert groups have identified clinical factors that indicate sufficient risk to recommend low-dose aspirin preventive therapy. These risk factors may be complemented by biochemical and/or biophysical tests that either indicate increased probability of preeclampsia in individuals with clinical risk factors, or more importantly, identify increased likelihood in those without other evident risk. In addition, the opportunity exists to provide this population with additional care that may prevent or mitigate the short- and long-term effects of preeclampsia. Patient and provider education, increased surveillance, behavioral modification, and other approaches to improve outcomes in these individuals can improve the chance of a healthy outcome. We assembled a group with diverse, relevant expertise (clinicians, investigators, advocates, and public and private stakeholders) to develop a care plan in which providers and pregnant individuals at risk can work together to reduce the risk of preeclampsia and associated morbidities. The plan is for care of individuals at moderate to high risk for developing preeclampsia, sufficient to receive low-dose aspirin therapy, as identified by clinical and/or laboratory findings. The recommendations are presented using the GRADE methodology with the quality of evidence upon which each is based. In addition, printable appendices with concise summaries of the care plan's recommendations for patients and healthcare providers are provided. We believe that this shared approach to care will facilitate prevention of preeclampsia and its attendant short- and long-term morbidity in patients identified as at risk for development of this disorder.

Role of First Trimester Screening Biochemical Markers to Predict Hypertensive Pregnancy Disorders and SGA Neonates-A Narrative Review

Early recognition of high-risk pregnancies through biochemical markers may promote antenatal surveillance, resulting in improved pregnancy outcomes. The goal of this study is to evaluate the possibilities of using biochemical markers during the first trimester of pregnancy in the prediction of hypertensive pregnancy disorders (HPD) and the delivery of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates. A comprehensive search was conducted on key databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, for articles relating to the use of biochemical markers in the prediction of HPD and SGA. The findings show that changes in the levels of biomarkers in the early pregnancy phases could be an important indicator of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The literature shows that low PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A) and PlGF (placental growth factor) levels, low alkaline phosphatase (AP), higher sFlt-1 (soluble fms-like Tyrosine Kinase-1) levels, higher AFP (alfa fetoprotein) levels, and elevated levels of inflammatory markers such as β-HGC (free beta human chorionic gonadotropin), interferon-gamma (INF-γ), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) may be associated with risks including the onset of HPD, fetal growth restriction (FGR), and delivery of SGA neonates. Comparatively, PAPP-A and PlGF appear to be the most important biochemical markers for the prediction of SGA and HPD.

Evaluation of impacts of aspirin therapy versus placebo on preeclampsia: An observational study

Background

Gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia often increase maternal and neonatal mortality. The illness usually appears after the 20th week of pregnancy due to malnutrition or obesity. Untreated, it can lead to neonatal and maternal mortality. Low-dose Aspirin can prevent preeclampsia if started between 11 and 28 weeks. Several studies support this technique, although others have shown limited effectiveness and negative side effects.

Objective

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of aspirin treatment for the prevention of preeclampsia, taking into account any possible adverse reactions.

Methods

This observational research comprised 600 singleton pregnant women at high risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension. The aspirin group had 301 individuals and the placebo group 299. From 11 to 36 weeks of pregnancy, they received 150 mg of aspirin and 150 mg of placebo. Gestational hypertension was assessed at 25 weeks, 36 weeks, and 37 weeks. If any, aspirin and placebo-related adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes were reported.

Results

With aspirin therapy, 4 females and 14 females with placebo developed gestational hypertension before 25 weeks of pregnancy with an odds ratio of 0.283 (0.092-0.87); before 36 weeks, 5 females and 15 females with placebo developed GHD with an odds ratio of 0.331 (0.118-0.922); and after 37 weeks, 17 females and 35 females with placebo developed GHD. Preeclampsia occurred in 5 females in the aspirin group and 17 in the placebo group at <25 weeks (odds ratio 0.292 (0.106-0.802), 7 females in the aspirin arm and 25 females in the placebo arm at <36 weeks (odds ratio 0.278 (0.118-0.652), and 21 females in the aspirin arm and 39 females in the placebo arm at >37 weeks (odds ratio 0.5349 (0.307-0.930).

Conclusion

In pregnant women at high risk of prenatal hypertension and preeclampsia, aspirin therapy is very effective with minimal side effects.

First-trimester screening for Down syndrome using quadruple maternal biochemical markers

OBJECTIVES

Placental growth factor (PlGF) is used for first-trimester preeclampsia screening and could be combined with other biochemical markers for Down syndrome screening. We aim to estimate the predictive value of the combination of pregnancy-associated plasma protein (PAPP-A), free β-human chorionic gonadotropin (free β-hCG), placental growth factor (PlGF) and α-fetoprotein (AFP) with and without nuchal translucency.

METHODS

Singleton pregnancies recruited at 11-14 weeks and followed until delivery. The four maternal markers were measured using Kryptor (ThermoFisher-BRAHMS) and adjusted for gestational age and maternal characteristics. The risk of Down syndrome was calculated using the Fetal Medicine Foundation algorithm and multivariate linear regression analyses in all cases and in 2,200 controls. Receiver-operator characteristic (ROC) curves were used to calculate the detection and false-positive rates.

RESULTS

Twenty-six (0.2%) cases of Down syndrome were diagnosed among 13,386 participants. The combination of the four biomarkers could have detected 88% (95% CI: 72-97%) of the cases at a false-positive rate of 13% (95% CI: 12-15%). The addition of nuchal translucency would have increased the detection rate to 96% (95% CI: 82-99%) at a false-positive rate of 4% (95% CI: 4-5%) using a 1:300 cut-off and to 100% (95% CI: 89-100%) at a false-positive rate of 6% (95% CI: 5-8%) using a 1:500 cut-off.

CONCLUSIONS

First-trimester screening using biochemical markers allows the identification of approximately 88% of Down syndrome cases for a false-positive rate of 13%. The addition of nuchal translucency raises the detection rate above 95% with a false-positive rate below 5%.

Nitroxide-HMP-Protects Human Trophoblast HTR-8/SVneo Cells from H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress by Reducing the HIF1A Signaling Pathway

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific syndrome affecting 5-7% of patients. There is no effective treatment available. Early abnormal placental development is associated with oxidative stress (OS) and a release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the placenta. This phenomenon leads to downstream signaling, Hypoxia Inducible Factor 1A (HIF1A) stabilization and transcription of the anti-angiogenic factors soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFLT1) and soluble endoglin (sEng), which are known to cause endothelial and trophoblast dysfunction and cardinal features of PE: hypertension, proteinuria and, in severe cases, eclampsia. We tested whether 3-(Hydroxymethyl)-1-oxy-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrrolidine (HMP)-a nitroxide-type antioxidant molecule-can reduce placental OS and mitigate PE symptoms in vitro. We induced OS in human trophoblast (HTR-8/SVneo) cells with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and assessed whether modulating cell redox function with HMP reduces cell injury, mitochondrial stress and HIF1A and sFLT1 production. Pre-treatment with HMP reduced mitochondrial-derived ROS production, restored LC3B expression and reduced HIF1A and sFLT1 expression in H2O2-exposed HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells. HMP improved the mitochondrial electron chain enzyme activity, indicating that a reduction in OS alleviates mitochondrial stress and also reduces anti-angiogenic responses. In reducing placental trophoblast OS, HMP presents a potential novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of PE. Future investigation is warranted regarding the in vivo use of HMP.

Prediction and prevention of preeclampsia in women with preexisting diabetes: the role of home blood pressure, physical activity, and aspirin

Women with type 1 or type 2 (preexisting) diabetes are four times more likely to develop preeclampsia compared with women without diabetes. Preeclampsia affects 9%-20% of pregnant women with type 1 diabetes and 7%-14% of pregnant women with type 2 diabetes. The aim of this narrative review is to investigate the role of blood pressure (BP) monitoring, physical activity, and prophylactic aspirin to reduce the prevalence of preeclampsia and to improve pregnancy outcome in women with preexisting diabetes. Home BP and office BP in early pregnancy are positively associated with development of preeclampsia, and home BP and office BP are comparable for the prediction of preeclampsia in women with preexisting diabetes. However, home BP is lower than office BP, and the difference is greater with increasing office BP. Daily physical activity is recommended during pregnancy, and limiting sedentary behavior may be beneficial to prevent preeclampsia. White coat hypertension in early pregnancy is not a clinically benign condition but is associated with an elevated risk of developing preeclampsia. This renders the current strategy of leaving white coat hypertension untreated debatable. A beneficial preventive effect of initiating low-dose aspirin (150 mg/day) for all in early pregnancy has not been demonstrated in women with preexisting diabetes.

Preeclampsia in 2023: Time for preventing early onset- and term preeclampsia: The paramount role of gestational weight gain

The 2023 goal is to halve the incidence of preeclampsia worldwide to reach 3 million cases per year vs the current approximately 7 million cases. Preventive treatment by low dose aspirin only halves the incidence of early-onset preeclampsia (EOP < 34 weeks gestation) in high-risk women. However, 90% of PE cases are the late onset form (LOP, 34 weeks onward) proportionally associated with increasing maternal pre-pregnancy BMI. In 2018, we published a new method to calculate individualized optimal gestational weight gain based on normal Gaussian distribution of neonatal birthweights (SGA 10%, LGA 10%) and demonstrated that this optimal gestational weight gain (GWG) follows a linear equation suitable for all maternal PRE-pregnancy BMIs (from lean to obesities classes 1-2-3). A similar linear equation has been published recently based on a 2022 US database of 200,000 multiple pregnancies. Subsequently, we demonstrated in a prospective population study that in overweight and obese women who are able to achieve an optimal GWG, the rate of term preeclampsia (> 37 week's gestation) halves. Providing individual app-based calculations of optimal individual GWG, all patients will be aware of their personal weight gain target over the pregnancy. CONCLUSION: Halving the incidence of early-onset- and term preeclampsia worldwide by prevention is now theoretically achievable. Appropriate and timely start of low-dose Aspirin and providing women clear advice on their optimal GWG are they ingredients to achieve this goal.

New Ideas for the Prevention and Treatment of Preeclampsia and Their Molecular Inspirations

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific disorder affecting 4-10% of all expectant women. It greatly increases the risk of maternal and foetal death. Although the main symptoms generally appear after week 20 of gestation, scientific studies indicate that the mechanism underpinning PE is initiated at the beginning of gestation. It is known that the pathomechanism of preeclampsia is strongly related to inflammation and oxidative stress, which influence placentation and provoke endothelial dysfunction in the mother. However, as of yet, no "key players" regulating all these processes have been discovered. This might be why current therapeutic strategies intended for prevention or treatment are not fully effective, and the only effective method to stop the disease is the premature induction of delivery, mostly by caesarean section. Therefore, there is a need for further research into new pharmacological strategies for the treatment and prevention of preeclampsia. This review presents new preventive methods and therapies for PE not yet recommended by obstetrical and gynaecological societies. As many of these therapies are in preclinical studies or under evaluation in clinical trials, this paper reports the molecular targets of the tested agents or methods.

Which first-trimester risk assessment method for preeclampsia is most suitable? A model-based impact study

BACKGROUND

Low-dose aspirin treatment reduces the risk of preeclampsia among high-risk pregnant women. Internationally, several first-trimester risk-calculation methods are applied.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the costs and benefits of different first-trimester preeclampsia risk estimation algorithms: EXPECT (an algorithmic prediction model based on maternal characteristics), National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (a checklist of risk factors), and the Fetal Medicine Foundation (a prediction model using additional uterine artery Doppler measurement and laboratory testing) models, coupled with low-dose aspirin treatment, in comparison with no risk assessment.

STUDY DESIGN

We constructed a decision analytical model estimating the number of cases of preeclampsia with each strategy and the costs of risk assessment for preeclampsia and early aspirin treatment, expressed in euros (€) in a hypothetical population of 100,000 women. We performed 1-way sensitivity analyses to assess the impact of adherence rates on model outcomes.

RESULTS

Application of the EXPECT, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, and Fetal Medicine Foundation models results in respectively 1.98%, 2.55%, and 1.90% of the women developing preeclampsia, as opposed to 3.00% of women in the case of no risk assessment. Overall, the net financial benefits of the EXPECT, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, and Fetal Medicine Foundation models relative to no risk assessment are €144, €43, and €38 per patient, respectively. The respective percentages of women receiving aspirin treatment are 18.6%, 10.2%, and 6.0% for the 3 risk assessment methods.

CONCLUSION

The EXPECT and Fetal Medicine Foundation model are comparable with regard to numbers of prevented preeclampsia cases, and both are superior to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence model and to no risk assessment. EXPECT is less resource-demanding and results in the highest cost savings, but also requires the highest number of women to be treated with aspirin. When deciding which strategy is preferable, cost savings and easier use have to be weighed against the degree of overtreatment, although low-dose aspirin has no clear disadvantages during pregnancy.

The Role of Pancreatic Stone Protein (PSP) as a Biomarker of Pregnancy-Related Diseases

Background: Pancreatic stone protein (PSP) is a biochemical serum marker that contains levels that are elevated in various inflammatory and infectious diseases. The role of PSP in the diagnosis of these diseases seems to be more important compared to clinically established biochemical serum markers in discriminating the severity of the same diseases. Standard values for PSP in pregnant women in relation to gestational age have been reported recently. Additionally, increased PSP levels have been observed to be associated with renal dysfunction in pregnant women. The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic role of PSP in pregnancy-related diseases, such as pre-eclampsia (PE), hemolysis-elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet (HELLP) syndrome. In addition, the study aims to assess its diagnostic role in inflammation-triggered diseases as preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) or COVID-19-positive pregnant women. Materials and Methods: In this single-centred prospective study performed at a tertiary university hospital between 2013 and 2021, we included 152 pregnant women who were diagnosed with either PE, HELLP syndrome, or PPROM. In December 2020, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Independent Ethics Committee (IEC) approved an amendment to the study protocol. Depending on the underlying disease, single or serial-serum PSP measurements were assessed. These PSP values were compared to PSP levels of women with normal pregnancies. Results: Pregnant women diagnosed with pre-eclampsia or HELLP syndrome had significantly increased PSP values (mean 9.8 ng/mL, SD 2.6) compared to healthy singleton pregnant women (mean 7.9 ng/mL, SD 2.6, p ≤ 0.001). There was no difference in serum PSP in pregnant women with PPROM compared to women with uncomplicated singleton pregnancies (mean in PPROM: 7.9 ng/mL; SD 2.9 versus mean in healthy pregnancies: 7.9 ng/mL; SD 2.6, p = 0.98). Furthermore, no difference in the PSP values in women with or without intra-amniotic infection was observed (infection: mean 7.9 ng/mL; SD 2.8 versus no infection: mean 7.8 ng/mL; SD 3, p = 0.85). The mean value of PSP in COVID-19-infected women during pregnancy (8.5 ng/mL, SD 2.3) was comparable to healthy singleton pregnancies (mean 7.9 ng/mL, SD 2.6), p = 0.24. Conclusions: The novel serum biomarker PSP is significantly upregulated in pregnant women with pre-eclampsia and HELLP syndrome. Our observations call for the further evaluation of PSP in randomized controlled clinical trials to demonstrate the actual role of PSP in pregnancy-related diseases and whether it may provide new approaches for the management and discrimination of the severity of these gestational conditions.

Stillbirth: prevention and supportive bereavement care

Around half of the two million stillbirths occurring worldwide each year are preventable. This review compiles the most up-to-date evidence to inform stillbirth prevention. Many general maternal health interventions also reduce the risk of stillbirth, for example, antenatal care attendance. This review focuses on specific aspects of care: glucose metabolism, targeted aspirin prophylaxis, clotting and immune disorders, sleep positions, fetal movement monitoring, and preconception and interconception health. In the past few years, covid-19 infection during pregnancy has emerged as a risk factor for stillbirth, particularly among women who were not vaccinated. Alongside prevention, efforts to address stillbirth must include provision of high quality, supportive, and compassionate bereavement care to improve parents' wellbeing. A growing body of evidence suggests beneficial effects for parents who received supportive care and were offered choices such as mode of birth and the option to see and hold their baby. Staff need support to be able to care for parents effectively, yet, studies consistently highlight the scarcity of specific bereavement care training for healthcare providers. Action is urgently needed and is possible. Action must be taken with the evidence available now, in healthcare settings with high or low resources, to reduce stillbirths and improve training and care.

Comparative Analysis of Neonatal Effects in Pregnant Women with Cardiovascular Risk versus Low-Risk Pregnant Women

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Pregnancy imposes unique physiological changes on a woman's cardiovascular system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cohort of 68 participants, comprising 30 pregnant women with cardiovascular risk and 38 without cardiovascular risk, was recruited for this study. These participants were prospectively followed during their pregnancies from 2020 to 2022 at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of the "Pius Brînzeu" Emergency County Clinical Hospital in Timişoara, Romania. All women included in this study underwent cesarean section deliveries at the same medical facility. Data regarding the gestational weeks at delivery, birth weight, and Apgar scores assessed by neonatologists were collected for each participant. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the neonatal effects between the two groups.

RESULTS

The results of this study revealed significant differences between the groups in terms of Apgar scores (p = 0.0055), gestational weeks (p = 0.0471), and baby birth weight (p = 0.0392).

CONCLUSION

The findings underscore the importance of considering maternal cardiovascular health as a potential determinant of neonatal outcomes. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and develop strategies for optimizing neonatal outcomes in high-risk pregnancies.

Evaluating glucose variability through OGTT in early pregnancy and its association with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in non-diabetic pregnancies: a large-scale multi-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Recent evidence suggests increased glucose variability (GV) causes endothelial dysfunction, a central pathology of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). We aimed to investigate the association between GV in early pregnancy and subsequent HDP development among non-diabetes mellitus (DM) pregnancies.

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study used data from singleton pregnancies between 2009 and 2019. Among individuals who had 75 g-OGTT before 20 weeks of gestation, we evaluated GV by 75 g-OGTT parameters and examined its relationship with HDP development, defining an initial-increase from fasting-plasma glucose (PG) to 1-h-PG and subsequent-decrease from 1-h-PG to 2-h-PG.

RESULTS

Approximately 3.0% pregnancies (802/26,995) had 75 g-OGTT before 20 weeks of gestation, and they had a higher prevalence of HDP (14.3% vs. 7.5%). The initial-increase was significantly associated with overall HDP (aOR 1.20, 95% CI 1.02-1.42), and the subsequent-decrease was associated with decreased and increased development of early-onset (EoHDP: aOR 0.56, 95% CI 0.38-0.82) and late-onset HDP (LoHDP: aOR 1.38, 95% CI 1.11-1.73), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A pattern of marked initial-increase and minor subsequent-decrease (i.e., sustained hyperglycemia) was associated with EoHDP. Contrarily, the pattern of marked initial-increase and subsequent-decrease (i.e., increased GV) was associated with LoHDP. This provides a new perspective for future study strategies.

Bioactive lipid mediators in plasma are predictors of preeclampsia irrespective of aspirin therapy

There are few early biomarkers to identify pregnancies at risk of preeclampsia (PE) and abnormal placental function. In this cross-sectional study, we utilized targeted ultra-performance liquid chromatography-ESI MS/MS and a linear regression model to identify specific bioactive lipids that serve as early predictors of PE. Plasma samples were collected from 57 pregnant women prior to 24-weeks of gestation with outcomes of either PE (n = 26) or uncomplicated term pregnancies (n = 31), and the profiles of eicosanoids and sphingolipids were evaluated. Significant differences were revealed in the eicosanoid, (±)11,12 DHET, as well as multiple classes of sphingolipids; ceramides, ceramide-1-phosphate, sphingomyelin, and monohexosylceramides; all of which were associated with the subsequent development of PE regardless of aspirin therapy. Profiles of these bioactive lipids were found to vary based on self-designated race. Additional analyses demonstrated that PE patients can be stratified based on the lipid profile as to PE with a preterm birth linked to significant differences in the levels of 12-HETE, 15-HETE, and resolvin D1. Furthermore, subjects referred to a high-risk OB/GYN clinic had higher levels of 20-HETE, arachidonic acid, and Resolvin D1 versus subjects recruited from a routine, general OB/GYN clinic. Overall, this study shows that quantitative changes in plasma bioactive lipids detected by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-ESI-MS/MS can serve as an early predictor of PE and stratify pregnant people for PE type and risk.

The exciting potential for ChatGPT in obstetrics and gynecology

Natural language processing-the branch of artificial intelligence concerned with the interaction between computers and human language-has advanced markedly in recent years with the introduction of sophisticated deep-learning models. Improved performance in natural language processing tasks, such as text and speech processing, have fueled impressive demonstrations of these models' capabilities. Perhaps no demonstration has been more impactful to date than the introduction of the publicly available online chatbot ChatGPT in November 2022 by OpenAI, which is based on a natural language processing model known as a Generative Pretrained Transformer. Through a series of questions posed by the authors about obstetrics and gynecology to ChatGPT as prompts, we evaluated the model's ability to handle clinical-related queries. Its answers demonstrated that in its current form, ChatGPT can be valuable for users who want preliminary information about virtually any topic in the field. Because its educational role is still being defined, we must recognize its limitations. Although answers were generally eloquent, informed, and lacked a significant degree of mistakes or misinformation, we also observed evidence of its weaknesses. A significant drawback is that the data on which the model has been trained are apparently not readily updated. The specific model that was assessed here, seems to not reliably (if at all) source data from after 2021. Users of ChatGPT who expect data to be more up to date need to be aware of this drawback. An inability to cite sources or to truly understand what the user is asking suggests that it has the capability to mislead. Responsible use of models like ChatGPT will be important for ensuring that they work to help but not harm users seeking information on obstetrics and gynecology.

Maternal Serum Activin A, Inhibin A and Follistatin-Related Proteins across Preeclampsia: Insights into Their Role in Pathogenesis and Prediction

BACKGROUND

Within the endocrine-paracrine signalling network at the maternal-foetal interface, the activin-inhibin-follistatin system modulates extravillous trophoblast invasion, suggesting a potential role in preeclampsia pathogenesis. This study aimed to compile the evidence published in the last decade regarding the variation in maternal serum activins, inhibin- and follistatin-related proteins in preeclamptic pregnancies compared to healthy pregnancies, and to discuss their role in predicting and understanding the pathophysiology of preeclampsia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A scoping review was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE and LILACS databases to identify studies published within the last ten years (2012-2022).

RESULTS

Thirty studies were included. None of the studies addressed maternal serum changes of isoforms different from activin A, inhibin A, follistatin, and follistatin-like 3. Sixteen studies evaluated the potential of these isoforms in predicting preeclampsia through the area under the curve from a receiver operating characteristic curve.

CONCLUSIONS

In preeclampsia, inhibin A is upregulated in all trimesters, whereas activin A increases exclusively in the late second and third trimesters. Serum follistatin levels are reduced in women with preeclampsia during the late second and third trimesters. However, changes in follistatin-like 3 remain inconclusive. Inhibin A and activin A can potentially serve as biomarkers of early-onset preeclampsia based on the outcomes of the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Further investigations are encouraged to explore the feasibility of quantifying maternal serum levels of activin A and inhibin A as a clinical tool in early preeclampsia prediction.

Single-cell RNA-seq reveals developmental deficiencies in both the placentation and the decidualization in women with late-onset preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is a leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Although increasing lines of evidence suggest that both the placenta and the decidua likely play roles in the pathogenesis of PE, the molecular mechanism of PE remains elusive partly because of the heterogeneity nature of the maternal-fetal interface. In this study, we perform single-cell RNA-seq on the placenta and the decidual from patients with late-onset PE (LOPE) and women in normal pregnancy. Analyses of single-cell transcriptomes reveal that in LOPE, there are likely a global development deficiency of trophoblasts with impaired invasion of extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) and increased maternal immune rejection and inflammation in the placenta, while there are likely insufficient decidualization of decidual stromal cells (DSC), increased inflammation, and suppressed regulatory functions of decidual immune cells. These findings improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of PE.

Biological and pathological mechanisms leading to the birth of a small vulnerable newborn

The pathway to a thriving newborn begins before conception and continues in utero with a healthy placenta and the right balance of nutrients and growth factors that are timed and sequenced alongside hormonal suppression of labour until a mature infant is ready for birth. Optimal nutrition that includes adequate quantities of quality protein, energy, essential fats, and an extensive range of vitamins and minerals not only supports fetal growth but could also prevent preterm birth by supporting the immune system and alleviating oxidative stress. Infection, illness, undernourishment, and harmful environmental exposures can alter this trajectory leading to an infant who is too small due to either poor growth during pregnancy or preterm birth. Systemic inflammation suppresses fetal growth by interfering with growth hormone and its regulation of insulin-like growth factors. Evidence supports the prevention and treatment of several maternal infections during pregnancy to improve newborn health. However, microbes, such as Ureaplasma species, which are able to ascend the cervix and cause membrane rupture and chorioamnionitis, require new strategies for detection and treatment. The surge in fetal cortisol late in pregnancy is essential to parturition at the right time, but acute or chronically high maternal cortisol levels caused by psychological or physical stress could also trigger labour onset prematurely. In every pathway to the small vulnerable newborn, there is a possibility to modify the course of pregnancy by supporting improved nutrition, protection against infection, holistic maternal wellness, and healthy environments.

Gestational hypertension and "severe" disease: time for a change

Our understanding and management of gestational hypertension and its variants are substantially hindered by a reliance on antiquated terminology and on practice recommendations based largely on tradition rather than outcomes-based evidence. Unsurprisingly, gestational hypertension remains a major contributor to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality rates, with little improvement seen over the past half century except as it relates to better newborn care. Reliance on a binary classification of vastly disparate types and degrees of organ dysfunction (severe or not severe) and the use of nonphysiological and largely arbitrary gestational age cutoffs are particularly problematic. If this situation is to improve, it will be necessary to abandon current misleading terminology and non-evidence-based traditional practice patterns and start again, building on management approaches validated by outcomes-based data.

Mitochondrial ROS Accumulation Contributes to Maternal Hypertension and Impaired Remodeling of Spiral Artery but Not IUGR in a Rat PE Model Caused by Maternal Glucocorticoid Exposure

Increased maternal glucocorticoid levels have been implicated as a risk factor for preeclampsia (PE) development. We found that pregnant rats exposed to dexamethasone (DEX) showed hallmarks of PE features, impaired spiral artery (SA) remodeling, and elevated circulatory levels of sFlt1, sEng IL-1β, and TNFα. Abnormal mitochondrial morphology and mitochondrial dysfunction in placentas occurred in DEX rats. Omics showed that a large spectrum of placental signaling pathways, including oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), energy metabolism, inflammation, and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system were affected in DEX rats. MitoTEMPO, a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, alleviated maternal hypertension and renal damage, and improved SA remodeling, uteroplacental blood flow, and the placental vasculature network. It reversed several pathways, including OXPHOS and glutathione pathways. Moreover, DEX-induced impaired functions of human extravillous trophoblasts were associated with excess ROS caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. However, scavenging excess ROS did not improve intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), and elevated circulatory sFlt1, sEng, IL-1β, and TNFα levels in DEX rats. Our data indicate that excess mitochondrial ROS contributes to trophoblast dysfunction, impaired SA remodeling, reduced uteroplacental blood flow, and maternal hypertension in the DEX-induced PE model, while increased sFlt1 and sEng levels and IUGR might be associated with inflammation and an impaired energy metabolism and IGF system.

Lipidomics Reveals Elevated Plasmalogens in Women with Obesity Who Develop Preeclampsia

Objective: Preeclampsia (PE) is a prevalent pregnancy disorder worldwide with limited preventative treatments available. Obesity triples the risk for PE, yet only 10% of women with obesity develop PE. The factors that distinguish PE from uncomplicated pregnancies in the context of obesity have not been fully established. Methods: We studied a cohort of women with obesity throughout pregnancy to identify lipid mediators and/or biomarkers of PE. Blood samples were collected at each trimester and analyzed by both targeted lipidomics and standard lipid panels. Individual lipid species were compared by PE status at each trimester, as well as by self-identified race (Black vs. White) and fetal sex. Results: Standard lipid panels and clinical measurements revealed few differences between PE and uncomplicated pregnancies. Targeted lipidomics, however, identified plasmalogen, phosphatidylethanolamine, and free fatty acid species that were elevated in the third trimester of women with PE. Furthermore, race and trimester of pregnancy were considerable sources of plasma lipidomic variation in women with obesity. Conclusions: First and second trimester individual plasma lipid species do not predict the development of PE in obese women. In the third trimester, PE patients have elevated levels of plasmalogens-a class of lipoprotein-associated phospholipids that have been implicated in the response to oxidative stress.

Aspirin in pregnancy: a review of indications, timing, dosing and efficacy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this study was to evaluate the recent literature examining the utility of low-dose daily aspirin (LDA) in the prevention of preeclampsia and other potential adverse perinatal sequelae. The evidence supporting various aspirin doses and timing of initiation of treatment for this purpose will be examined. The potential benefits of LDA therapy in pregnancy will be discussed weighing against any potential associated harm.

RECENT FINDINGS

Findings from several recent meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials are consistent with prior studies in showing a reduction in risk for preeclampsia with LDA use in individuals at an increased risk for this complication. Some studies suggest aspirin at a dose greater than the current recommended 81 mg is associated with the highest reduction in preterm PE.Several studies have demonstrated a reduction in risk for preterm birth, small for gestational age (SGA) infant or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and a reduction in the risk of perinatal mortality associated with aspirin use. The findings of reduced preterm birth (PTB) and IUGR were also demonstrated among low-risk patients.Identifying patients at risk was re-evaluated, with resulting changes to existing United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines.

SUMMARY

This review of recent evidence suggests a decreased rate of preeclampsia at aspirin doses higher than the standardly used 81 mg when treatment is initiated prior to 16 weeks of gestation. Although LDA use seems promising for other outcomes such as preterm delivery and IUGR, further studies to strengthen recommendations are warranted.

Preeclampsia pathophysiology and adverse outcomes during pregnancy and postpartum

Background

Preeclampsia is a disease with far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the immediate postpartum period and have a significant impact later in life. Preeclampsia exerts an effect on most organ systems in the body. These sequelae are mediated in part by the incompletely elucidated pathophysiology of preeclampsia and the associated vascular changes.

Content

Current research focuses on unraveling the pathophysiology of preeclampsia with the goal of implementing accurate screening and treatment modalities based on disease development and progression. Preeclampsia causes significant short- and long-term maternal morbidity and mortality, not only in the cardiovascular system but also in other organ systems throughout the body. This impact persists beyond pregnancy and the immediate postpartum period.

Summary

The goal of this review is to discuss the current understanding of the pathophysiology of preeclampsia as it relates to the adverse health consequences in patients impacted by this disease, along with a brief discussion of ways to improve overall outcomes.

Placenta-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Pregnancy Complications and Prospects on a Liquid Biopsy for Hemoglobin Bart's Disease

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-scaled vesicles released from all cell types into extracellular fluids and specifically contain signature molecules of the original cells and tissues, including the placenta. Placenta-derived EVs can be detected in maternal circulation at as early as six weeks of gestation, and their release can be triggered by the oxygen level and glucose concentration. Placental-associated complications such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and gestational diabetes have alterations in placenta-derived EVs in maternal plasma, and this can be used as a liquid biopsy for the diagnosis, prediction, and monitoring of such pregnancy complications. Alpha-thalassemia major ("homozygous alpha-thalassemia-1") or hemoglobin Bart's disease is the most severe form of thalassemia disease, and this condition is lethal for the fetus. Women with Bart's hydrops fetalis demonstrate signs of placental hypoxia and placentomegaly, thereby placenta-derived EVs provide an opportunity for a non-invasive liquid biopsy of this lethal condition. In this article, we introduced clinical features and current diagnostic markers of Bart's hydrops fetalis, extensively summarize the characteristics and biology of placenta-derived EVs, and discuss the challenges and opportunities of placenta-derived EVs as part of diagnostic tests for placental complications focusing on Bart's hydrop fetalis.

An examination of care received by women with recurrent miscarriage and infertility against guideline-based key performance indicators

OBJECTIVES

International guidelines for the management of recurrent miscarriage (RM) do not provide detailed guidance for the care of women/couples with concurrent infertility. Research studies concerning the investigation and treatment of RM frequently omit this cohort. The aim of this study was to assess the care of women/couples with infertility attending a RM clinic in a large tertiary unit in the Republic of Ireland.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted an audit of women with RM and infertility attending our RM clinic from 2008 to 2020 against 110 established guideline-based key performance indicators (KPIs) for RM care, encompassing five categories: structure of care, counselling/supportive care, investigation, treatment and outcomes. Information was gathered from documentation from the RM clinic, hospital laboratory and electronic health records.

RESULTS

We identified 128 women with infertility and RM. Information provision in RM clinics regarding modifiable risk factors (71 %; 91/128) and unexplained RM (53 %; 69/128) could be improved. Most women were investigated in line with KPIs, except for pelvic ultrasound (40 %; 51/128), cytogenetic analysis (27 %; 34/128) and 3D ultrasound (2 %; 2/128). Immunotherapies were seldom prescribed (<1%); however, 98 % (125/128) of women received aspirin, 48 % LMWH (62/128) and 16 % corticosteroids (21/128). Surgical interventions were uncommon (5 %; 6/128)). The subsequent pregnancy rate was 70 % (89/128), with 36 % undergoing artificial reproductive technology (32/89). The livebirth rate was 63 % (56/89); 37 % had a further pregnancy loss (33/89), of which two were second-trimester miscarriages.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with RM and infertility received care largely in line with RM guideline-based KPIs. However, we identified areas for improvement, including the quality of information provision, and access to certain investigations. While guideline-based KPIs allow for internationally applicable and reproducible audit that can direct service improvements, the experiences and needs of service-users are not captured, meriting further qualitative research.

Aspirin Discontinuation at 24 to 28 Weeks' Gestation in Pregnancies at High Risk of Preterm Preeclampsia: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Aspirin reduces the incidence of preterm preeclampsia by 62% in pregnant individuals at high risk of preeclampsia. However, aspirin might be associated with an increased risk of peripartum bleeding, which could be mitigated by discontinuing aspirin before term (37 weeks of gestation) and by an accurate selection of individuals at higher risk of preeclampsia in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Objective

To determine whether aspirin discontinuation in pregnant individuals with normal soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 to placental growth factor (sFlt-1:PlGF) ratio between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation was noninferior to aspirin continuation to prevent preterm preeclampsia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Multicenter, open-label, randomized, phase 3, noninferiority trial conducted in 9 maternity hospitals across Spain. Pregnant individuals (n = 968) at high risk of preeclampsia during the first-trimester screening and an sFlt-1:PlGF ratio of 38 or less at 24 to 28 weeks of gestation were recruited between August 20, 2019, and September 15, 2021; of those, 936 were analyzed (intervention: n = 473; control: n = 463). Follow-up was until delivery for all participants.

Interventions

Enrolled patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to aspirin discontinuation (intervention group) or aspirin continuation until 36 weeks of gestation (control group).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Noninferiority was met if the higher 95% CI for the difference in preterm preeclampsia incidences between groups was less than 1.9%.

Results

Among the 936 participants, the mean (SD) age was 32.4 (5.8) years; 3.4% were Black and 93% were White. The incidence of preterm preeclampsia was 1.48% (7/473) in the intervention group and 1.73% (8/463) in the control group (absolute difference, -0.25% [95% CI, -1.86% to 1.36%]), indicating noninferiority.

Conclusions and Relevance

Aspirin discontinuation at 24 to 28 weeks of gestation was noninferior to aspirin continuation for preventing preterm preeclampsia in pregnant individuals at high risk of preeclampsia and a normal sFlt-1:PlGF ratio.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03741179 and ClinicalTrialsRegister.eu Identifier: 2018-000811-26.

Preeclampsia: Recent Advances in Predicting, Preventing, and Managing the Maternal and Fetal Life-Threatening Condition

Preeclampsia accounts for one of the most common documented gestational complications, with a prevalence of approximately 2 to 15% of all pregnancies. Defined as gestational hypertension after 20 weeks of pregnancy and coexisting proteinuria or generalized edema, and certain forms of organ damage, it is life-threatening for both the mother and the fetus, in terms of increasing the rate of mortality and morbidity. Preeclamptic pregnancies are strongly associated with significantly higher medical costs. The maternal costs are related to the extra utility of the healthcare system, more resources used during hospitalization, and likely more surgical spending due to an elevated rate of cesarean deliveries. The infant costs also contribute to a large percentage of the expenses as the babies are prone to preterm deliveries and relevant or causative adverse events. Preeclampsia imposes a considerable financial burden on our societies. It is important for healthcare providers and policy-makers to recognize this phenomenon and allocate enough economic budgets and medical and social resources accordingly. The true cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying preeclampsia remain largely unexplained, which is assumed to be a two-stage process of impaired uteroplacental perfusion with or without prior defective trophoblast invasion (stage 1), followed by general endothelial dysfunction and vascular inflammation that lead to systemic organ damages (stage 2). Risk factors for preeclampsia including race, advanced maternal age, obesity, nulliparity, multi-fetal pregnancy, and co-existing medical disorders, can serve as warnings or markers that call for enhanced surveillance of maternal and fetal well-being. Doppler ultrasonography and biomarkers including the mean arterial pressure (MAP), uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI), and serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) can be used for the prediction of preeclampsia. For women perceived as high-risk individuals for developing preeclampsia, the administration of low-dose aspirin on a daily basis since early pregnancy has proven to be the most effective way to prevent preeclampsia. For preeclamptic females, relevant information, counseling, and suggestions should be provided to facilitate timely intervention or specialty referral. In pregnancies complicated with preeclampsia, closer monitoring and antepartum surveillance including the Doppler ultrasound blood flow study, biophysical profile, non-stress test, and oxytocin challenge test can be arranged. If the results are unfavorable, early intervention and aggressive therapy should be considered. Affected females should have access to higher levels of obstetric units and neonatal institutes. Before, during, and after delivery, monitoring and preparation should be intensified for affected gravidas to avoid serious complications of preeclampsia. In severe cases, delivery of the fetus and the placenta is the ultimate solution to treat preeclampsia. The current review is a summary of recent advances regarding the knowledge of preeclampsia. However, the detailed etiology, pathophysiology, and effect of preeclampsia seem complicated, and further research to address the primary etiology and pathophysiology underlying the clinical manifestations and outcomes is warranted.

Aspirin 75 mg to prevent preeclampsia in high-risk pregnancies: a retrospective real-world study in China

BACKGROUND

Several randomized clinical trials showed that aspirin could decrease the incidence of preeclampsia (PE) in women at high risk, but data from sources other than traditional clinical trials that investigating the preventive effect of aspirin 75 mg on PE is still lacking, especially in mainland China. We aimed to use Chinese real-world data to estimate the preventive effect of low-dose aspirin (LDA) on PE.

METHODS

Clinical data of pregnant women who were at high risk of PE and had their first prenatal visit at the affiliated Taicang People's Hospital of Soochow University during November 31, 2018 and May 10, 2021 was retrospectively analyzed. Among the 266 included pregnant women, 115 individuals treated with aspirin 75 mg per day and the other 151 without such treatment were considered as the LDA group and the control group, respectively.

RESULTS

In the LDA group, 64 (55.65%) of 115 pregnant women took aspirin before 16 weeks of gestation. Besides, 12 (10.43%) and 34 (22.52%) women developed PE in the LDA group and control group, respectively; the aspirin prophylaxis was associated with a lower risk of PE (odds ratio = 0.40, 95% confidence interval = 0.20-0.82, P = 0.0098). In addition, LDA is slightly more effective when initiated before 16 weeks of gestation or in those without chronic hypertension, when compared with their counterparts.

CONCLUSION

Prophylaxis with 75 mg per day of aspirin in high-risk women resulted in a significantly lower incidence of PE than that in the control group.

Low-dose aspirin use in the first trimester of pregnancy and odds of congenital anomalies: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Daily low-dose aspirin (LDA) is recommended in high-risk pregnancies. However, its safety profile in the first trimester has not been well documented.

OBJECTIVES

To determine if LDA exposure during the first trimester of pregnancy is associated with higher odds of congenital structural anomalies.

SEARCH STRATEGY

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov were systematically searched.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assigned participants to LDA (≤150 mg) or placebo/no intervention at less than 14 weeks of pregnancy were eligible.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Random-effects models were performed using the inverse-variance method to calculate pooled effect sizes. Quality of evidence was appraised according to Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) criteria.

MAIN RESULTS

Eight RCTs that included 7564 participants assigned to receive daily LDA and 7670 participants that served as controls were analyzed. Low-certainty evidence showed no significant difference in the odds of congenital anomalies (odds ratio 0.87, 95% confidence interval 0.62-1.23, I²  = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

In this meta-analysis, there is no evidence to suggest safety concerns regarding LDA teratogenicity. However, given the overall low quality of evidence, further research (e.g. individual participant data meta-analysis) is needed to confirm LDA safety profile.

The Effect of Short-Term Aspirin Administration during Programmed Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer on Pregnancy Outcomes and Complications

Low-dose aspirin is widely used during frozen-embryo transfer (FET) cycles. Its anti-platelet property makes it a potentially useful drug for the prevention of hypertension disorders of pregnancy (HDP). However, the existing evidence about the effect of short-term aspirin administration on pregnancy outcomes is not clear. In our study, we retrospectively investigated women who had their first or second FET cycles at the Reproductive Hospital Affiliated with Shandong University from April 2017 to December 2020. A total of 4454 programmed FET cycles were recruited. According to whether aspirin was administrated in the protocols, the patients were divided into two groups: The Control group (n = 2793, 85 of them using donor sperm) and the Aspirin group (n = 1661, 35 of them using donor sperm). We analyzed the pregnancy outcomes and pregnancy complications of these cycles and observed similar live birth rates. We found that the short-term use of aspirin at a dosage of 50 mg per day for women undergoing programmed FET did not elevate the live birth rate or decrease the incidence of a series of pregnancy complications, including HDP. Based on our experience, short-term administration of low-dose aspirin may not improve the outcomes of young women undergoing frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles.

Molecular subclasses of preeclampsia characterized by a longitudinal maternal proteomics study: distinct biomarkers, disease pathways and options for prevention

OBJECTIVES

The heterogeneous nature of preeclampsia is a major obstacle to early screening and prevention, and a molecular taxonomy of disease is needed. We have previously identified four subclasses of preeclampsia based on first-trimester plasma proteomic profiles. Herein, we expanded this approach by using a more comprehensive panel of proteins profiled in longitudinal samples.

METHODS

Proteomic data collected longitudinally from plasma samples of women who developed preeclampsia (n=109) and of controls (n=90) were available from our previous report on 1,125 proteins. Consensus clustering was performed to identify subgroups of patients with preeclampsia based on data from five gestational-age intervals by using select interval-specific features. Demographic, clinical, and proteomic differences among clusters were determined. Differentially abundant proteins were used to identify cluster-specific perturbed KEGG pathways.

RESULTS

Four molecular clusters with different clinical phenotypes were discovered by longitudinal proteomic profiling. Cluster 1 involves metabolic and prothrombotic changes with high rates of early-onset preeclampsia and small-for-gestational-age neonates; Cluster 2 includes maternal anti-fetal rejection mechanisms and recurrent preeclampsia cases; Cluster 3 is associated with extracellular matrix regulation and comprises cases of mostly mild, late-onset preeclampsia; and Cluster 4 is characterized by angiogenic imbalance and a high prevalence of early-onset disease.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is an independent validation and further refining of molecular subclasses of preeclampsia identified by a different proteomic platform and study population. The results lay the groundwork for novel diagnostic and personalized tools of prevention.

CCL21/CCR7 Axis Contributes to Trophoblastic Cell Migration and Invasion in Preeclampsia by Affecting the Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition via the ERK1/2 Signaling Pathway

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related disorder that is a leading cause of maternal death. The failure of spiral artery remodeling due to insufficient trophoblast migration and invasion is critical in the pathogenesis of PE. Recently, the CC motif chemokine ligand 21 (CCL21) has been widely linked to cancer cell invasion and migration. However, their potential mechanisms are still unknown. In this study, we found that CCL21 expression was significantly lower in the PE group than that in the control group. In vitro experiments revealed that recombinant CCL21 could promote trophoblast cell epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions (EMTs) and improve migration and invasion. Furthermore, an inhibitor of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway inhibited the CCL21-induced EMT process. Finally, a PE mouse model was established using the NOS inhibitor L-NAME, and we obtained similar results, with downregulated CCL21 and EMT biomarkers and upregulated CCR7. Taken together, these findings suggest that the CCL21/CCR7 axis influences EMT by activating the ERK1/2 signaling pathway, thereby affecting trophoblast cell migration and invasion, which may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of PE.

Preeclampsia and Obesity-The Preventive Role of Exercise

Obesity is now recognized as a worldwide epidemic. An inadequate diet and reduced physical activity are acknowledged as the leading causes of excess body weight. Despite growing evidence that obesity is a risk factor for unsuccessful pregnancies, almost half of all women who become pregnant today are overweight or obese. Common complications of pregnancy in this group of women are preeclampsia and gestational hypertension. These conditions are also observed more frequently in women with excessive weight gain during pregnancy. Preeclampsia is one of the most serious pregnancy complications with an unpredictable course, which in its most severe forms, threatens the life and health of the mother and her baby. The early identification of the risk factors for preeclampsia development, including obesity, allows for the implementation of prophylaxis and a reduction in maternal and fetal complications risk. Additionally, preeclampsia and obesity are the recognized risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease in later life, so prophylaxis and treating obesity are paramount for their prevention. Thus, a proper diet and physical activity might play an essential role in the prophylaxis of preeclampsia in this group of women. Limiting weight gain during pregnancy and modifying the metabolic risk factors with regular physical exercise creates favorable metabolic conditions for pregnancy development and benefits the elements of the pathogenetic sequence for preeclampsia development. In addition, it is inexpensive, readily available and, in the absence of contraindications to its performance, safe for the mother and fetus. However, for this form of prevention to be effective, it should be applied early in pregnancy and, for overweight and obese women, proposed as an essential part of planning pregnancy. This paper aims to present the mechanisms of the development of hypertension in pregnancy in obese women and the importance of exercise in its prevention.

Predictive Performance of Machine Learning-Based Methods for the Prediction of Preeclampsia-A Prospective Study

(1) Background: Preeclampsia (PE) prediction in the first trimester of pregnancy is a challenge for clinicians. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the predictive performances of machine learning-based models for the prediction of preeclampsia and its subtypes. (2) Methods: This prospective case-control study evaluated pregnancies that occurred in women who attended a tertiary maternity hospital in Romania between November 2019 and September 2022. The patients' clinical and paraclinical characteristics were evaluated in the first trimester and were included in four machine learning-based models: decision tree (DT), naïve Bayes (NB), support vector machine (SVM), and random forest (RF), and their predictive performance was assessed. (3) Results: Early-onset PE was best predicted by DT (accuracy: 94.1%) and SVM (accuracy: 91.2%) models, while NB (accuracy: 98.6%) and RF (accuracy: 92.8%) models had the highest performance when used to predict all types of PE. The predictive performance of these models was modest for moderate and severe types of PE, with accuracies ranging from 70.6% and 82.4%. (4) Conclusions: The machine learning-based models could be useful tools for EO-PE prediction and could differentiate patients who will develop PE as early as the first trimester of pregnancy.

A real-world data analysis of acetylsalicylic acid in FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database

BACKGROUND

Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin), one of the oldest medicines, is widely used in various clinical fields. However, numerous adverse events (AEs) have been reported. In this study, we aimed to investigate adverse drug reactions (ADRs) of aspirin using real-worlddata from the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database.

METHODS

We assessed the disproportionality of aspirin-related AEs by calculating measures such as reporting odds ratio (ROR), proportional reporting ratio (PRR), Bayesian confidence propagationneural network (BCPNN), and Gamma-Poisson Shrinker (GPS).

RESULTS

Out of 7,510,564 casereports in the FAERS database, 18644 reports of aspirin as the 'primary suspected (PS)' AEs were recorded. Disproportionality analyses identified 493 aspirin-related preferred terms (PTs) across 25 organ systems. Notably, unexpected significant AEs such as pallor (p=5.66E-33), dependence (p=6.45E-67), and compartment syndrome (p=1.95E-28) were observed, which were not mentioned in the drug's instructions.

CONCLUSION

Our findings align with clinical observations, highlighting potential new and unexpected ADR signals associated with aspirin. Further prospective clinical studies are necessary to confirm and elucidate the relationship between aspirin and these ADRs. This study offers a fresh and unique perspective for studying drug-AEs.

PREECLAMPSIA AND ITS EFFECT ON THE STATE OF CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM IN WOMEN

OBJECTIVE

The aim: To determine the features of the impact of preeclampsia on the development of cardiovascular disorders in women in the future.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and methods: The study involved an assessment of literary sources, which were published mainly in the last five years, using scientometric and specialized databases Pubmed, Science direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and V.I. Vernadskyi NLU "Scientific Periodicals of Ukraine".

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: Cardiovascular disorders are not only a medical problem, but also a social one. Preeclampsia is a dangerous condition that contributes to the development of CVDs, increases the rate of mortality and disability among women. All this makes it absolutely necessary to study the features of the pathogenesis in detail, to understand exactly how, through which mechanisms, the preeclamptic state affects the woman's body, and this will allow doctors to indirectly influence its pathogenesis and reduce negative consequences and improve the quality of life.

Coagulation Factors and Natural Anticoagulants as Surrogate Markers of Preeclampsia and Its Subtypes: A Case-Control Study in a Ghanaian Population

Preeclampsia (PE) is associated with endothelial injury and hemostatic abnormalities. However, the diagnostic role of coagulation parameters and natural anticoagulants in predicting PE has not been explored in Ghana. This study assessed plasma levels of these factors as surrogate markers of PE and its subtypes. This case-control study included 90 women with PE (cases) and 90 normotensive pregnant women (controls). Blood samples were drawn for the estimation of complete blood count and coagulation tests. The prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and the calculation of the international normalized ratio (INR) were determined by an ACL elite coagulometer while the levels of protein C (PC), protein S (PS), antithrombin III (ATIII), and D-dimers were also measured using the solid-phase sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. All statistical analyses were performed using the R Language for Statistical Computing. Results showed significantly (p < .05) shortened APTT (28.25 s) and higher D-dimer levels (1219.00 ng/mL) among PE women, as well as low levels of PC (1.02 µg/mL), PS (6.58 µg/mL), and ATIII (3.99 ng/mL). No significant difference was found in terms of PT and INR. From the receiver operating characteristic analysis, PC, PS, and ATIII could significantly predict PE and its subtypes at certain cutoffs with high accuracies (area under the curve [AUC] ≥0.70). Most women with PE are in a hypercoagulable state with lower natural anticoagulants. PC, PS, and ATIII are good predictive and diagnostic markers of PE and its subtypes (early-onset PE [EO-PE] and late-onset PE [LO-PE]) and should be explored in future studies.

Augmentation index and pulse wave velocity in normotensive versus preeclamptic pregnancies: a prospective case-control study using a new oscillometric method

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to investigate whether oscillometric AS measurements are different in pregnant women with and without preeclampsia (PE).

STUDY DESIGN

This was a prospective case-control study in singleton pregnancies that had been diagnosed with PE (n = 46) versus normotensive controls (n = 46) between 2014 and 2019. In the case group, pregnancies complicated by PE were classified as either early-onset (<34 weeks of gestation) or late-onset (≥34 weeks of gestation) PE and subgroup analysis was performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (Alx), and Alx at a heart rate of 75 beats per minute (Alx-75) were measured using a brachial cuff-based automatic oscillometric device (Mobil-O-Graph 24 h PWA).

RESULTS

In pregnancies complicated by PE, in comparison with normotensive pregnancies, there were significant differences in PWV (p ˂ .001), and Alx-75 (p ˂ .001). In pregnancies complicated by early-onset PE, in comparison with pregnancies complicated by late-onset PE, there were significant differences in PWV (p = .006), and Alx-75 (p = .009). There was no significant difference in Alx in either of the analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

PWV and Alx-75 are higher in pregnancies complicated by PE, in comparison with normotensive pregnancies, as well as in early-onset PE, in comparison with late-onset PE.Key messagesPulse wave velocity is higher in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia.Augmentation index at a heart rate of 75 beats per minute is higher in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia.Arterial stiffness assessment is a promising risk-stratification tool for future cardiovascular complications but further studies are required.

The effect of 150 and 80 mg doses of aspirin on preventing preterm birth in high-risk pregnant women

OBJECTIVES

Preterm birth (PTB) is the common cause of neonatal mortality nationwide. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different doses of aspirin in preventing PTB in high-risk pregnant women. As secondary outcomes, other perinatal complications were compared.

METHODS

This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on high-risk pregnant women with impaired placental perfusion diagnosed in the first trimester of pregnancy referring to the perinatal centers affiliated to Shiraz university of Medical Sciences between February 2020 and March 2021. The subjects were randomly divided in two groups administered with 150 or 80 mg aspirin every night from 11 to 13+6 weeks until 36 weeks or delivery. This study is registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20140317017035N6; http://www.irct.ir/). Univariate and multiple logistic regressions were applied using SPSS 22.

RESULTS

A total of 101 subjects received 80 mg aspirin and 89 ones received 150 mg aspirin. The results of multiple analysis revealed a significantly lower odds of PTB (OR 0.4 (0.19, 0.99)) in the 150 mg group compared to the 80 mg group. As secondary outcomes, preeclampsia (PEC) and PEC with severe features (PECsf) were lower (OR 0.2 (0.06, 0.82) and 0.1 (0.01, 0.92), respectively); however, fetal age and neonatal weight were higher in the 150 mg group (OR 1.2 (1.04, 1.33) and 1.001 (1-1.001), respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings indicated that, compared with 80 mg of aspirin, taking 150 mg of aspirin reduced PTB and perinatal complications in high risk pregnant women.

Aspirin for the prevention of preeclampsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies

BACKGROUND

The results of randomized controlled studies on aspirin for the prevention of preeclampsia (PE) are conflicting, and some of the related meta-analyses also have limitations or flaws.

DATA SOURCES

A search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, with no time or language restrictions.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Randomized controlled studies comparing aspirin for the prevention of PE were conducted.

METHODS

Systematic reviews were performed according to the Cochrane Manual guidelines. A fixed-effects model or a random-effects model was chosen to calculate pooled relative risks with 95% confidence intervals based on the heterogeneity of the included studies. The study aimed to investigate the effect of aspirin on the development of PE in high-risk and general populations of women. Publication bias was assessed by funnel plots. All included studies were assessed for bias by the Cochrane Manual of Bias Assessment. Subgroup analyses were conducted on the aspirin dose, time of initial aspirin intervention, and the region in which the research was conducted, to explore the effective dose of aspirin and time of initial aspirin intervention and to try to find sources of heterogeneity and publication bias.

RESULTS

A total of 39 articles were included, including 29 studies involving pregnant women at high risk for PE (20,133 patients) and 10 studies involving a general population of pregnant women (18,911 patients). Aspirin reduced the incidence of PE by 28% (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.62-0.83) in women at high risk for PE. Aspirin reduced the incidence of PE by 30% in the general population (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.52-0.95), but sensitivity analyses found that aspirin in the general population was not robust. A subgroup analysis showed that an aspirin dose of 75 mg/day (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.32-0.78) had a better protective effect than other doses. Starting aspirin at 12-16 weeks (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.53-0.74) of gestation or 17-28 weeks (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.44-0.89) reduced the incidence of PE by 38% in women at high risk for PE, but the results were more reliable for use at 12-16 weeks. Heterogeneity and publication bias of the included studies may be mainly due to the studies completed in Asia.

CONCLUSION

Aspirin is recommended to be started at 12-16 weeks of pregnancy in women at high risk for PE. The optimal dose of aspirin to use is 75 mg/d.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

[www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [CRD42022319984].

Human Plasma Proteome During Normal Pregnancy

The human plasma proteome is underexplored despite its potential value for monitoring health and disease. Herein, using a recently developed aptamer-based platform, we profiled 7288 proteins in 528 plasma samples from 91 normal pregnancies (Gene Expression Omnibus identifier GSE206454). The coefficient of variation was <20% for 93% of analytes (median 7%), and a cross-platform correlation for selected key angiogenic and anti-angiogenic proteins was significant. Gestational age was associated with changes in 953 proteins, including highly modulated placenta- and decidua-specific proteins, and they were enriched in biological processes including regulation of growth, angiogenesis, immunity, and inflammation. The abundance of proteins corresponding to RNAs specific to populations of cells previously described by single-cell RNA-Seq analysis of the placenta was highly modulated throughout gestation. Furthermore, machine learning-based prediction of gestational age and of time from sampling to term delivery compared favorably with transcriptomic models (mean absolute error of 2 weeks). These results suggested that the plasma proteome may provide a non-invasive readout of placental cellular dynamics and serve as a blueprint for investigating obstetrical disease.

Role of microRNAs in trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodeling: Implications for preeclampsia

It is now well-established that microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of gene expression. The role of miRNAs in placental development and trophoblast function is constantly expanding. Trophoblast invasion and their ability to remodel uterine spiral arteries are essential for proper placental development and successful pregnancy outcome. Many miRNAs are reported to be dysregulated in pregnancy complications, especially preeclampsia and they exert various regulatory effects on trophoblasts. In this review, we provide a brief overview of miRNA biogenesis and their mechanism of action, as well as of trophoblasts differentiation, invasion and spiral artery remodeling. We then discuss the role of miRNAs in trophoblasts invasion and spiral artery remodeling, focusing on miRNAs that have been thoroughly investigated, especially using multiple model systems. We also discuss the potential role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.

Toward a new taxonomy of obstetrical disease: improved performance of maternal blood biomarkers for the great obstetrical syndromes when classified according to placental pathology

BACKGROUND

The major challenge for obstetrics is the prediction and prevention of the great obstetrical syndromes. We propose that defining obstetrical diseases by the combination of clinical presentation and disease mechanisms as inferred by placental pathology will aid in the discovery of biomarkers and add specificity to those already known.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the longitudinal profile of placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), and the PlGF/sFlt-1 ratio throughout gestation, and to determine whether the association between abnormal biomarker profiles and obstetrical syndromes is strengthened by information derived from placental examination, eg, the presence or absence of placental lesions of maternal vascular malperfusion.

STUDY DESIGN

This retrospective case cohort study was based on a parent cohort of 4006 pregnant women enrolled prospectively. The case cohort of 1499 pregnant women included 1000 randomly selected patients from the parent cohort and all additional patients with obstetrical syndromes from the parent cohort. Pregnant women were classified into six groups: 1) term delivery without pregnancy complications (n=540; control); 2) preterm labor and delivery (n=203); 3) preterm premature rupture of the membranes (n=112); 4) preeclampsia (n=230); 5) small-for-gestational-age neonate (n=334); and 6) other pregnancy complications (n=182). Maternal plasma concentrations of PlGF and sFlt-1 were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays in 7560 longitudinal samples. Placental pathologists, masked to clinical outcomes, diagnosed the presence or absence of placental lesions of maternal vascular malperfusion. Comparisons between mean biomarker concentrations in cases and controls were performed by utilizing longitudinal generalized additive models. Comparisons were made between controls and each obstetrical syndrome with and without subclassifying cases according to the presence or absence of placental lesions of maternal vascular malperfusion.

RESULTS

1) When obstetrical syndromes are classified based on the presence or absence of placental lesions of maternal vascular malperfusion, significant differences in the mean plasma concentrations of PlGF, sFlt-1, and the PlGF/sFlt-1 ratio between cases and controls emerge earlier in gestation; 2) the strength of association between an abnormal PlGF/sFlt-1 ratio and the occurrence of obstetrical syndromes increases when placental lesions of maternal vascular malperfusion are present (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 13.6 vs 6.7 for preeclampsia; aOR, 8.1 vs 4.4 for small-for-gestational-age neonates; aOR, 5.5 vs 2.1 for preterm premature rupture of the membranes; and aOR, 3.3 vs 2.1 for preterm labor (all P<0.05); and 3) the PlGF/sFlt-1 ratio at 28 to 32 weeks of gestation is abnormal in patients who subsequently delivered due to preterm labor with intact membranes and in those with preterm premature rupture of the membranes if both groups have placental lesions of maternal vascular malperfusion. Such association is not significant in patients with these obstetrical syndromes who do not have placental lesions.

CONCLUSION

Classification of obstetrical syndromes according to the presence or absence of placental lesions of maternal vascular malperfusion allows biomarkers to be informative earlier in gestation and enhances the strength of association between biomarkers and clinical outcomes. We propose that a new taxonomy of obstetrical disorders informed by placental pathology will facilitate the discovery and implementation of biomarkers as well as the prediction and prevention of such disorders.