Serum β HCG as a predictor and potent marker for pregnancy induced hypertension

ABSTRACT

Background: Hypertensive disorders are also responsible for perinatal mortality and morbidity. Preeclampsia is a risk factor for stillbirth, IUGR, LBW, Preterm delivery, Respiratory distress syndrome, and admission in the neonatal intensive care unit. Hypertensive disorders account for 8-10% of all preterm births. Aim of the study This study was conducted to predict gestational hypertension by using serum beta HCG and thereby to follow up the risk patients and to reduce both maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Materials and methods: A prospective study was done to determine the role of βHCG in 100 pregnant women in their second trimester (13-20) weeks, attending Tirunelveli medical college OPD. Duration of study was from March 2018- January 2019. Routine antenatal investigations were done. 5 ml of venous blood sample was collected and tests were carried out. Estimation of serum beta HCG level was done by enzyme-linked fluorescence immunoassay. In the antenatal clinic, the patients were followed up. Results: From the study, it was found, women who have elevated βHCG values in 13-20 weeks were at increased risk of developing PIH. For any test to be used as screening test it should have good sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value. In this study, β HCG had Sensitivity – 71.4%, Specificity - 87.1%. Conclusion: While comparing patients with normal BP and pre-eclampsia - βHCG values are elevated in patients with preeclampsia. The sensitivity and specificity of βHCG are very low to be Sheba Rosatee Victor, D Jayalakshmi. Serum β HCG as a predictor and potent marker for pregnancy induced hypertension. IAIM, 2019; 6(3) 38-43. Page 39 useful as a mass screening marker on its own and therefore it should be combined with other serum markers and ultrasound parameters like Doppler study of uterine vessels, which will help in improving its role as a screening tool.