Biochemical Profile of women with pregnancy induced hypertension

Hypertensive disorders complicating pregnancy are common and form one of the deadly triad, along with hemorrhage and infection. Pre-eclampsia is a syndrome of generalized endothelial dysfunction initiated by abnormal placentation and consequent placental under perfusion, release of cytokines, peroxidants and vasoconstriction and platelet activation. It is characterized by hypertension, reduced uteroplacental blood flow, proteinuria and edema. Pre-eclampsia is associated with increased lipid Peroxidation in maternal circulation and placenta.

A hospital based cross sectional study was carried out among 65 women of age 18 to 30 years who were in third trimester of pregnancy with singleton fetus. Informed consent was taken from each and every study participant. It was ensured that the study participants did not receive any medication for hypertension. Blood pressure was measured as per the standard guidelines. Urine for protein was determined by Dip sticks method. Serum uric acid, Malondialdehyde and birth weight was measured.

The two groups were similar in the parameters like age, gestational age at blood sampling, and gestational age at delivery. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial blood pressure, proteinuria, serum uric acid and Malondialdehyde were increased in eclampsia group than pre-eclampsia group. These parameters were also increased in pre eclampsia & eclampsia group as compared to the controls. Serum uric acid and Malondialdehyde levels in pregnant women with pre eclampsia & eclampsia showed a statistically significant increase as compared to the control group (p<0.001). Mean birth weight was less in eclampsia group than pre-eclampsia group. Induction of labor, preterm delivery and C/Section, were obstetric outcome affecting maternal morbidity.

Serum uric acid & Malondialdehyde were increased in pre eclampsia & eclampsia cases. The eclampsia group was more at risk of delivery by caesarean section than the pre-eclampsia group. The birth weight was also less in eclampsia cases as compared to pre-eclampsia and normal pregnancy.