Predictive value of plasma haematocrit level in early diagnosis of pre-eclampsia

While pre-eclampsia is the most common complication of pregnancy, a definitive screening test for early diagnosis is still elusive. In this study, haematocrit value was assessed as a screening test for pre-eclampsia in 660 women at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy attending a hospital in Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran. Mean haematocrit values were significantly higher in pre-eclamptic than non-pre-eclamptic women; 37.7% [SD 2.0%] and 35.9% [SD 1.7%] respectively. The receiver operating characteristics curve showed that the most appropriate cut-off point for the haematocrit test in this sample of women was 38%; at this value the sensitivity was 58.6% and specificity was 88.9%; positive and negative predictive values were 33.7% and 95.7% respectively. The haematocrit, done as a routine screening test for anaemia at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy, may also be useful as a screening test for early diagnosis of pre-eclampsia

[Effect of positive predictive value of serum hematocrit levels on early detection of preeclampsia]

Preeclampsi which is a common and important disorder in pregnancy is one of the three leading causes of maternal mortality. It is worthy to find out an appropriate screening test for it. This study aimed to assess serum hematocrit level as a screening test for preeclampsia. Using a randomized stratification, 660 women who were in the 24-28 weeks of gestation were recruited to the study from a prenatal clinic of Taamin Ejtemaei hospital in Tehran. Data were collected through observations and interviews. Data were recorded in a questionnaire and recording form. The women were followed up until delivery. Data were analyzed in SPSS. There was significant differences in 24-28 weeks serum hematocrit levels in preeclamptic and non-preeclamptic women [P<0.001]. There were 58.6% sensitivity, 88.9% specificity, 33.7% positive predictive value, and 95.7% negative predictive value for serum hematocrit. A Serum hematocrit level in 24-28 weeks of gestation is a simple and inexpensive test that can help to detect high-risk preeclamptic women