The role of aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) in the first trimester for the prediction of superimposed preeclampsia: A case-control study from a tertiary center.

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the role of aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) in the prediction of superimposed preeclampsia in chronic hypertensive pregnancy group in the first trimester. METHODS: The present retrospective case-control study was conducted on 258 pregnant women, including 75 patients in the isolated chronic hypertension group, 92 in the superimposed preeclampsia group, and 91 low-risk pregnant women in the control group. APRI1 was calculated from routine blood test results in the first antenatal visit, and APRI2 was calculated from prelabor routine blood test results. APRI indices and other blood count parameters were evaluated and compared between groups and with the literature. RESULTS: APRI1 was lower in the superimposed preeclampsia group than in the control and chronic hypertension groups, with p-values < 0.001. In the first trimester, platelet counts were higher in the superimposed preeclampsia group than in the hypertension and control groups. APRI2 was increased in the superimposed preeclampsia group compared to the control and chronic hypertension groups, with p-values 0.001 and 0.002, respectively. The optimal cut-off value for APRI1 was 0.036 (sensitivity 65.2 %, specificity 83.7 %), and for APRI2, it was found to be 0.057 (sensitivity 67.4 %, specificity 52.0 %) to predict superimposed preeclampsia. DISCUSSION: To the best of our knowledge, this was the first study evaluating APRI in predicting superimposed preeclampsia in the first trimester. Increased platelet counts and lower APRI were found to be valuable indices for predicting superimposed preeclampsia. Further studies are needed to determine the utility of APRI in clinical practice.

Assessment of the fetal thymic-thoracic ratio in pregnant women with intrahepatic cholestasis: a prospective case-control study.

OBJECTIVES: To examine the fetal thymic-thoracic ratio (TTR) in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). METHODS: This prospective case-control study was conducted in a single tertiary center. The sample consisted of 86 pregnant women at 28-37 weeks of gestation, including 43 women with ICP and 43 healthy controls. TTR was calculated for each patient using the anterior-posterior measurements of the thymus and intrathoracic mediastinal measurements. RESULTS: The median TTR value was found to be smaller in the ICP group compared to the control group (0.32 vs. 0.36, p<0.001). The ICP group had a greater rate of admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (p<0.001). Univariate regression analysis revealed that lower TTR values increased the possibility of NICU admission six times (95 % confidence interval: 0.26-0.39, p=0.01). A statistically significant negative correlation was detected between TTR and the NICU requirement (r: -0.435, p=0.004). As a result of the receiver operating characteristic analysis, in predicting NICU admission, the optimal cut-off value of TTR was determined to be 0.31 with 78 % sensitivity and 67 % specificity (area under the curve=0.819; p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: We determined that the fetal TTR may be affected by the inflammatory process caused by the maternal-fetal immune system and increased serum bile acid levels in fetal organs in the presence of ICP. We consider that TTR can be used to predict adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with ICP.

The Association of Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII), Systemic Immune-Response Index (SIRI), and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) with Cesarean Scar Pregnancy (CSP).

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association of the Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII), Systemic Immune-Response Index (SIRI), and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) with Cesarean Scar Pregnancy (CSP) METHODS: This prospective case-control study was conducted in Ankara City Hospital perinatology clinic between 2022 and 2023. The diagnosis of CSP was made by transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound. NLR, SII, and SIRI values were compared between those diagnosed with CSP (n=23) and healthy pregnancies (n=126) at the time of first admission. RESULTS: The study group had significantly higher NLR, SII, and SIRI values compared to the controls. Optimal cut-off values were 3.79 (69 % sensitivity, 78.2 % specificity), 1180.6 (76.7 % sensitivity, 72.7 % specificity), and, 1.9 (83.3 % sensitivity, 72.7 % specificity) for NLR, SII, and SIRI, respectively. When NLR, SII and SIRI values were compared between CSP cases and pregnant women who had previous history of cesarean section but did not have CSP, significantly higher SII values were observed in the CSP group. The optimal cut-off value of SII was found to be 804.4 in predicting CSP among cases with previous history of cesarean delivery (73.9 % sensitivity, 66.2 % specificity). CONCLUSION: SII, SIRI, and NLR may be useful in predicting cesarean scar pregnancy in pregnant women.

Utility of the cerebro-placental-uterine ratio in predicting composite adverse perinatal outcomes in pregestational diabetes: A prospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: To examine the cerebro-placental-uterine ratio (CPUR) in pregnant women with pregestational diabetes and determine its role in predicting adverse prenatal outcomes. METHODS: This prospective, cohort study conducted at a tertiary hospital included 65 patients with pregestational diabetes (25 with type1 diabetes, 40 with type2 diabetes) and 130 low-risk patients in the control group. The cerebroplacental (CPR) ratio and the CPUR were calculated. Composite adverse perinatal outcome (CAPO) is defined as the presence of any of the following: (1) Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, (2) Apgar at 5 min <7, and (3) umbilical cord arterial pH <7.10. The relationship of CPR and CPUR with CAPO was investigated. RESULTS: CPR and CPUR were significantly lower in the pregestational diabetes group than in the control group. The NICU admission was higher in the case group. In receiver operating characteristic analyses, the optimal cut-off value of CPUR was 1.46 (AUC = 0.72, p = 0.003, 80% sensitivity, and 69% specificity) to predict CAPO and the optimal cut-off value of CPUR was 1.50 for NICU admission (AUC = 0.70, p = 0.013, 77% sensitivity, and 66% specificity). CONCLUSION: Low CPUR values were found to be associated with adverse perinatal outcomes in women with pregestational diabetes. With the increasing number of studies, CPUR is expected to be utilized more widely in routine obstetric practice.

The utility of combined utero-cervical index in predicting preterm delivery in pregnant women with preterm uterine contractions.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the utility of a novel ultrasound index "combined utero-cervical index (CUCI)" in the prediction of preterm delivery. METHODS: The present prospective cohort study was conducted in Ankara Bilkent City Hospital Perinatology Clinic between January 1, 2023, and March 31, 2023. Pregnant women with uterine contractions between 24 and 36th gestational weeks but did not have dilatation or effacement were included. CUCI was calculated as: (utero-cervical angle)/(anterior cervical lip thickness + fundal thickness + lower uterine segment thickness + cervical length). In the presence of cervical funneling, one point was added to the final result. A ROC analysis was conducted to determine the potential of CUCI in predicting delivery <37 weeks of gestation, <34 weeks of gestation, and <4 weeks after the first admission to the hospital for uterine contractions, respectively. RESULTS: Optimal cut-off values of CUCI were found to be 1.4 (67.1% sensitivity, 67.2% specificity) for predicting delivery at <37th weeks, 1.7 (72.7% sensitivity, 65.7% specificity) for predicting delivery at <34th weeks, and 1.4 (62.5% sensitivity, 61.7% specificity) for predicting delivery at <4 weeks. CONCLUSION: CUCI may be used in the prediction of preterm delivery for pregnant women admitted to hospital with preterm uterine contractions.

The effect of levothyroxine and prednisolone treatment on pregnancy in in vitro fertilization patients with positive thyroid autoantibodies.

AIM: To investigate the effects of levothyroxine and prednisolone treatment, or in combination, on positive thyroid autoantibodies in infertile patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) therapy. METHODS: This retrospective study included a total of 190 patients with positive thyroid autoantibodies (anti-T and anti-TPO) who underwent IVF treatment between January 2008 and March 2016. Patients were divided into four groups: group 1-levothyroxine group (n = 50), group 2-prednisolone group (n = 50), group 3-levothyroxine and prednisolone combination (n = 25), group 4-control group (n = 65). Anti-T and anti-TPO levels before IVF and at the time of embryo transfer (ET), b-hcg positivity, clinical and biochemical pregnancy, miscarriage rate, and live birth rate were compared among groups. RESULTS: In levothyroxine-treated group, mean anti-TPO levels significantly decreased at the time of ET compared to before IVF treatment levels (p = 0.036). In group 3, mean anti-T and anti-TPO levels significantly decreased at the time of ET compared to levels before IVF treatment (p < 0.05). Patients who became pregnant in group 1, mean anti-T anti-TPO levels significantly decreased compared to before IVF treatment levels (p < 0.05). The biochemical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in group 2 (p = 0.03). Abortion rates were the highest in group 3, but no significant difference was found among groups. The group treated with levothyroxine had a significantly increased rate of live birth compared to the control group (p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Levothyroxine addition during IVF treatment of patients with positive thyroid antibodies in subclinical hypothyroidism increases the take-home baby pregnancy rate. Whether subclinical hypothyroidism or not in IVF treatment, levothyroxine is more effective than low-dose corticosteroids.

Systemic Inflammation Response Index and Systemic Immune-inflammation Index for Prediction of Pregnancy Loss: a Case-control Study.

The systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) and systemic immune inflammation index (SII) have recently been investigated as new prognostic markers for obstetric morbidities. However, there are few studies on their predictive role in patients with pregnancy loss. Predicting miscarriages may be useful to support and prevent selected cases.The aim of this study was to investigate the role of SIRI and SII in the prediction of pregnancy loss. A total of 800 patients were included in the retrospective case-control study at a tertiary hospital.Group 1 consisted of 200 patients who had a pregnancy loss for the first time; group 2 consisted of 200 patients with recurrent pregnancy loss; the control group consisted of 400 patients who had a healthy pregnancy. The groups were compared in terms of maternal characteristics, SIRI and SII. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to determine optimal cut-off values for SIRI and SII in predicting pregnancy loss. SIRI and SII were higher in the group with recurrent pregnancy loss than in the control group (p < 0.001).SIRI was higher in the first pregnancy loss group than in the control group (p < 0.001).To predict recurrent pregnancy loss, optimal cut-off values were 1.57 (80% sensitivity, 70% specificity) and 924.12 (74% sensitivity, 57% specificity) for SIRI and SII, respectively. For first pregnancy loss prediction, the optimal cut-off value was 1.38 for SIRI, with 75% sensitivity and 60% specificity. SIRI and SII may be used as inflammatory markers to predict recurrent pregnancy loss. High SIRI values can also help to predict first pregnancy loss.

Role of aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio in the prediction and prognosis of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: A case-control study from a tertiary center.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio (APRI) score as a predictive and prognostic test in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). METHODS: This study was conducted in 198 patients diagnosed with ICP and 204 healthy pregnant women who presented to a tertiary center between 2019 and 2022. APRI scores; laboratory findings in the first, second, and third trimesters; and perinatal outcomes were compared between the two groups. The ICP group was evaluated for correlation between APRI scores and composite adverse outcomes. Two different receiver operating characteristic analyses were performed to determine optimal cutoff values of predictive APRI score of ICP and composite adverse outcomes in patients with ICP. RESULTS: Aspartate aminotransferase values and APRI scores were significantly higher in the ICP group in all trimesters (P < 0.001). The optimal cutoff values of APRI scores to predict ICP for the first, second, and third trimesters were 0.101 (79.7% sensitivity, 79.6% specificity), 0.103 (78.4% sensitivity, 76.3% specificity), and 0.098 (72.5% sensitivity, 72% specificity), respectively. APRI scores were statistically higher in patients with ICP with composite adverse outcomes in all trimesters (P values of 0.03, 0.04, and 0.01, respectively). CONCLUSION: APRI score was found to be a valuable predictor of ICP and its adverse outcomes during the entire pregnancy.

First-trimester neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and systemic immune-response index (SIRI) as predictors of composite adverse outcomes in pregnant women with Familial Mediterranean fever.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the utility of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and systemic immune-response index (SIRI) in the prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective case-control study was conducted between 2019-2023. First-trimester NLR, SII (NLR X platelet count), and SIRI (NLR X monocyte count) values were compared between pregnant women with FMF (n=85) and without FMF (n=105). Thereafter, pregnant women with FMF were divided into two groups: 1) FMF with perinatal complications (n=30), and 2) FMF without perinatal complications (n=55). NLR, SII, and SIRI values were compared between the two subgroups. Finally, an ROC analysis was performed to determine optimal cut-off values for NLR, SII, and SIRI in the prediction of composite adverse pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS: The FMF group had significantly higher first-trimester NLR, SII, and SIRI values compared to the controls. The FMF with perinatal complications group had significantly higher NLR, SII, and SIRI values than the FMF group without perinatal complications (p<0.05). Optimal cut-off values were 4.89 (80% sensitivity, 78.2% specificity), 1180.6 (76.7% sensitivity, 72.7% specificity), and 1.9 (83.3% sensitivity,72.7% specificity) for NLR, SII, and SIRI, respectively. CONCLUSION: SII, SIRI, and NLR may be used to predict adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with FMF.

Systemic Inflammation Response Index as a diagnostic and prognostic predictor of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: A case-control study from a tertiary center.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of the Systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI) in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). METHODS: The present case-control study comprised 386 participants, including 192 women with ICP and 194 gestational age-matched pregnant women. Increased fasting biliary acid (FBA) levels (≥10 µmol/L) were accepted as ICP criteria. SIRI values were calculated for the first trimester (SIRI 1), time of diagnosis (SIRI 2), and time of delivery (SIRI 3). The ICP and control groups were compared based on SIRI values, and on obstetrical and neonatal outcomes. The ICP subgroups based on FBA levels (severe ICP [FBA ≥40 µmol/L] and mild ICP [FBA <40 µmol/L]) were also compared for SIRI and pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS: Adverse outcomes were significantly higher in the ICP group (P < 0.001). SIRI 2 and SIRI 3 showed negative significant differences between the ICP and control groups, with P values of 0.001 and 0.009, respectively. A significant difference in ICP severity subgroups (P = 0.046) was observed for SIRI 3. In receiver operating characteristics curve analyses, optimal cut-off values for the prediction of ICP were found to be 2.01 and 2.08 for SIRI 2 and SIRI 3, respectively. A cut-off value 1.74 was determined to predict the disease severity for SIRI 3. CONCLUSION: SIRI has clinical significance in accordance with the inflammatory etiology of ICP. SIRI might be used with other clinical and laboratory findings for ICP diagnosis and prediction.

The impact of gestational diabetes on the development of fetal frontal lobe: A case-control study from a tertiary center.

PURPOSE: To determine the effects of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on fetal frontal lobe development. METHODS: This study was conducted prospectively between May 2023 and August 2023 in Ankara City Hospital perinatology clinic. Maternal age, maternal body mass index (BMI), gestational week (GW), biparietal diameter (BPD), head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC), femur length (FL), estimated fetal weight (EFW), frontal antero-posterior diameter (FAPD), occipito-frontal diameter (OFD), FAPD/OFD ratio, and FAPD/HC ratio, were compared between GDM (n = 40) and low risk controls (n = 56). RESULTS: The mean maternal age was found higher in the GDM group compared to control group (p = 0.002). Maternal BMI was significantly higher in the GDM group than the control group (p = 0.01). Abdominal circumference (AC) was significantly higher in the GDM group compared to control group (p = 0.04). EFW was significantly higher in the GDM group compared to control group (p = 0.04). FAPD/OFD ratio was found to be higher in the GDM group than in the control group (p = 0.001). Among GDM patients, no statistically significant difference was found in the ultrasound measurements between the groups receiving insulin treatment and those without treatment. According to the correlation analysis results a moderate, positive, and statistically significant correlation was present between FAPD/OFD and GDM. In perinatal outcomes, the rate of neonatal intensive care unit admission was significantly higher in the GDM group. DISCUSSION: Fetal frontal lobe development seems to be affected by GDM.

The role of first trimester eosinophil count and eosinophil-based complete blood cell indices in the predictiction of preeclampsia: A case-control study.

INTRODUCTION: The importance of eosinophils in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia is an question of interest and there are recent studies in the literature indicating significantly lower eosinophil count values in pregnant women with preeclampsia. The present study aims to evaluate the utility of first-trimester eosinophil count and eosinophil-based complete blood cell count indices in the prediction of preeclampsia. METHODS: Pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia (n = 281) were retrospectively compared with a control group (n = 307). The utility of first trimester eosinophil count, neutrophil to eosinophil ratio (NER) (neutrophil/eosinophil), leukocyte to eosinophil ratio (LER) (leukocyte/eosinophil), eosinophil to monocyte ratio (EMR) (eosinophil/monocyte) and, eosinophil to lymphocyte ratio (ELR) (eosinophil/lymphocyte) in the prediction of preeclampsia were evaluated. RESULTS: Optimal cut-off values for eosinophil count, NER, LER, EMR and, ELR in predicting preeclampsia were 0.07 (AUC: 0.62, 58.7% sensitivity, 56.4% specificity), 90.9 (AUC: 0.65, 61.1% sensitivity, 59.4% specificity), 125.7 (AUC: 0.64, 61.4% sensitivity, 58.4% specificity), 0.15 (AUC: 0.63, 60.1% sensitivity, 59.6% specificity) and, 0.03 (AUC: 0.62, 60.9% sensitivity, 57% specificity), respectively. Mentioned values in predicting early-onset preeclampsia were 0.07 (AUC: 0.64, 60.5% sensitivity, 50.8% specificity), 102.1 (AUC: 0.64, 62.4% sensitivity, 58.8% specificity), 140.2 (AUC: 0.65, 63.5% sensitivity, 59.1% soecificity), 0.14 (AUC: 0.66, 66.3% sensitivity, 59.2% specificity), and, 0.03 (AUC: 0.63, 60.5% sensitivity, 57.4% specificity), respectively. The optimal cut-off value for EMR in the prediction of preeclampsia with severe features was 0.16 (AUC: 0.56, 56.9% sensitivity, 53.2% specificity). DISCUSSION: Eosinophil-based complete blood count indices may be used to predict early-onset preeclampsia with relatively low sensitivity and specificity.

Comparison of Cavum Septum Pellucidum Size in Euploid and Aneuploid Fetuses.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study is to compare the cavum septum pellucidi (CSP) z-score in euploid and aneuploid fetuses and to investigate the performance of the CSP width/length and CSP width/biparietal diameter (BPD) ratios as a diagnostic marker in aneuploidy. METHODS: A total of 54 patients, 20 aneuploid and 35 euploid fetuses, between 18 and 37 weeks of gestation, were included in this retrospective study. The CSP width z-score was compared between the two groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated for the CSP width/length and CSP width/BPD ratios to predict aneuploidy. RESULTS: The median CSP width was 4.8 mm (range, 1.8 to 8.5 mm) in the euploid group, and 5.4 mm (range 3.1 to 8.4 mm) in the aneuploid group. Cavum septum pellucidi width z-score, CSP width/length ratio, and CSP width/BPD ratio were significantly higher in fetuses with aneuploidy than in fetuses with normal karyotype (p = 0.001; p = 0.013; p = 0.028). In the ROC analysis, the CSP width/length ratio had the optimal cutoff value of 0.59, with 72.0% sensitivity and 58.0% specificity, and for the CSP width/BPD ratio, the cutoff value was 0.081 with 83.0% sensitivity and 61.0% specificity for detection of aneuploidy. CONCLUSION: CSP width z-score was found to be increased in aneuploid fetuses. The CSP width /BPD ratio can be used as a new marker for predicting aneuploidy.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo é comparar o escore z do cavum septum pellucidi (CSP) em fetos euploides e aneuploides e investigar o desempenho das relações largura/comprimento do CSP e largura do CSP/diâmetro biparietal (BPD) como marcador diagnóstico de aneuploidia. como marcador de diagnóstico de aneuploidia. MéTODOS:: Um total de 54 pacientes, 20 fetos aneuploides e 35 fetos euploides, entre 18 e 37 semanas de gestação, foram incluídos neste estudo retrospectivo. O escore z da largura da CSP foi comparado entre os dois grupos. As curvas ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) foram calculadas para as relações largura/comprimento da PEC e largura da PEC/BPD para prever a aneuploidia. RESULTADOS: A largura mediana da CSP foi de 4,8 mm (variação de 1,8 a 8,5 mm) no grupo euploide e de 5,4 mm (variação de 3,1 a 8,4 mm) no grupo aneuploide. O escore z da largura do cavum septum pellucidi, a relação largura/comprimento do CSP e a relação largura do CSP/BPD foram significativamente maiores em fetos com aneuploidia do que em fetos com cariótipo normal (p < 0,001; p < 0,013; p < 0,028). Na análise ROC, a relação largura/comprimento da CSP teve o valor de corte ideal de 0,59, com 72,0% de sensibilidade e 58,0% de especificidade, e para a relação largura da CSP/BPD, o valor de corte foi de 0,081, com 83,0% de sensibilidade e 61,0% de especificidade para a detecção de aneuploidia. CONCLUSãO:: Verificou-se que o escore z da largura da CSP estava aumentado em fetos aneuploides. A relação A relação largura da CSP /BPD pode ser usada como um novo marcador para prever a aneuploidia.

Evaluation of fetal cardiac output in preterm premature rupture of membranes.

AIM: We aimed to investigate fetal cardiac output (CO) in pregnancies with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and its relationship with umbilical cord pH. METHODS: This was a prospective study in total 90 pregnancies at 24-37 weeks gestation including 42 pregnancies with PPROM and 48 that healthy controls. Fetal cardiac function including combined, left and right CO z-scores were compared. The neonates in the PPROM group were separated with umbilical cord pH above and below 7.25, and cardiac output was compared between groups. RESULTS: In PPROM group, CCO z-score, left cardiac output (LCO) z-score, and right cardiac output (RCO) were significantly lower compared to healthy pregnancies (p = .036, p = .001, p = .032, respectively), while RCO z-score showed no significant differences between the two groups. The aortic annulus and pulmonary artery annulus z-scores were measured smaller in the PPROM group (p = .000 and p = .001, respectively). In PPROM group, the fetal LCO z-score was significantly lower in neonates with an umbilical cord pH of 7.25 or less (p = .048). CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence that fetal CCO is lower in PPROM compared with healthy pregnancies. Reduced LCO z-scores may be useful for predicting adverse neonatal outcomes in pregnancies with PPROM.

Can SIRI or other inflammatory indices predict HELLP syndrome in the first trimester?

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the use of systemic immune-response index (SIRI) and other inflammatory indices for the prediction of HELLP syndrome STUDY DESIGN: The presented retrospective case-control study was conducted with twenty-eight pregnant women diagnosed with HELLP syndrome and 100 low-risk pregnant women. The possible predictive indices for HELLP syndrome were determined as NLR (neutrophil/lymphocyte), MLR (monocyte/lymphocyte), HbLR (hemoglobin/lymphocyte), SII (neutrophil×platelet/lymphocyte), and SIRI (neutrophil×monocyte/lymphocyte). The indices were evaluated in the first trimester and at the admission time for delivery for all participants. The statistical analyses were carried out using SPSS 23. Descriptive statistics were presented as the mean and standard deviation (SD), as they conform to a normal distribution. To compare the parameters between the groups, the Student-t test was used. Categorical variables were presented as numbers and percentages. The chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables between groups. The paired sample t-test was used to compare correlated samples. Statistical significance was defined as a two-tailed P value of 0.05. RESULTS: In the first trimester; WBC, neutrophil, and monocyte counts were statistically higher in the HELLP syndrome group. However, no significant difference was observed between the groups for the concerned indices. The hemoglobin, WBC, neutrophil, monocyte counts, NLR, SIRI and MLR were significantly higher in the HELLP group at the delivery time. Platelet count was decreased and ALT/AST counts and adverse outcomes were found to be significantly higher at delivery time admission in the HELLP syndrome group. CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, this was the first study investigating SIRI with the other indices for the prediction of HELLP syndrome in accordance with its inflammatory etiology. The underlying inflammatory process was observed at the delivery time. However, none of the investigated indices was found effective in the first trimester in the prediction. Simple and non-invasive prediction indices might be valuable tools for the prediction and management of HELLP syndrome. Further and larger studies are needed for this purpose.

Evaluation of fetal myocardial performance index in gestational diabetes mellitus.

This study aimed to compare fetal myocardial performance index (MPI) between fetuses of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and healthy controls and to evaluate the relationship between MPI and maternal glucose levels. This was a prospective study of 90 pregnant women, including 50 pregnancies with GDM (27 pregnancies with insulin-regulated GDM and 23 pregnancies with diet-regulated GDM) and 40 healthy controls. Isovolumetric contraction time (ICT) + isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT)/ejection time (ET) were used to calculate the MPI (MPI = [ICT + IRT]/ET). Fetal MPI, PR interval, E/A ratio, maternal plasma glucose levels on the day of MPI measurement, and neonatal outcomes were compared. The fetal left-MPI was significantly higher in the GDM group than healthy controls (0.43 ± 0.04 vs. 0.40 ± 0.06, p = 0.007). The best cut-off level for MPI was >0.41 to predict adverse perinatal outcomes (sensitivity: 70%, specificity: 68%, area under the curve: 0.715, 95% confidence interval: 0.5143-0.8205, p < 0.001). The fetal MPI values showed no correlation with maternal plasma fasting, postprandial glucose, and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. Reduced E/A ratio, higher neonatal intensive care unit admissions, and the need for cesarean delivery were detected in the GDM group. Fetal MPI is impaired in women with GDM, and the need for insulin therapy is associated with higher MPI values and adverse neonatal outcomes. Fetal MPI can help detect fetuses with potential adverse outcome risks, owing to impaired fetal cardiac function.

The role of first-trimester NLR (neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and, systemic immune-response index (SIRI) in the prediction of composite adverse outcomes in pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus.

To evaluate the utility of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and systemic immune-response index (SIRI) in the prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This retrospective case-control study was conducted in Ankara City Hospital perinatology clinic between 2019 and 2023. First-trimester NLR, SII (NLR X platelet count), and SIRI (NLR X monocyte count) values were compared between pregnant women with SLE (n = 29) and low-risk controls (n = 110). Afterward, pregnant women with SLE were divided into two groups: 1) SLE with perinatal complications (n = 15) and 2) SLE without perinatal complications (n = 14). NLR, SII, and SIRI values were compared between the two subgroups. Finally, a ROC analysis was performed to determine optimal cut-off values for NLR, SII, and SIRI in the prediction of composite adverse pregnancy outcomes. The study group had significantly higher first-trimester NLR, SII, and SIRI values compared to the controls. The SLE with perinatal complications group had significantly higher NLR, SII, and SIRI values than the SLE group without perinatal complications (p < 0.05). Optimal cut-off values were 6.5 (66.7% sensitivity,71.4% specificity), 1612.6 (73.3% sensitivity, 71.4% specificity), and, 4.7 (73.3% sensitivity, 77.6% specificity) for NLR, SII, and SIRI, respectively. SII, SIRI, and NLR may be used to predict adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with SLE.

Evaluation of the Caval aortic index in fetal growth restriction: A case-control study in a tertiary center.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter, aortic diameter, and caval aortic index in fetuses with growth restriction and to compare the findings with fetuses from uncomplicated pregnancies at similar gestational weeks. METHODS: This prospective study was conducted with a total of 176 pregnant women. According to the diagnostic criteria, 84 pregnancies diagnosed with fetal growth restriction (FGR) were compared with a control group of 92 uncomplicated pregnancies at similar gestational weeks. RESULTS: The aortic and IVC diameter values were significantly lower in the FGR group (P < 0.001), whereas the caval aortic index was similar between the two groups. The examination of the ultrasound parameters of the cases with FGR according to the neonatal intensive care requirement revealed similar aortic diameter and caval aortic index values but a significantly smaller IVC diameter in the cases requiring neonatal intensive care (P = 0.022). CONCLUSION: We determined that the aortic and IVC diameter values were smaller in the fetuses with growth restriction, but the caval aortic index was similar in the two groups. The measurement of the IVC diameter in FGR may be useful in predicting the neonatal intensive care requirements of these fetuses.

Evaluation of maternal serum sestrin-2 levels in intrauterine growth restriction.

BACKGROUND: Sestrin-2 (SESN2) is a antioxidant protein that can be activated by a number of conditions, including DNA damage and hypoxia. AIMS: Our objective was to evaluate maternal serum SESN2 levels in patients with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and its association with adverse perinatal outcomes. METHODS: This prospective study included a total of 87 pregnant women admitted to our tertiary care center between 2018 August and 2019 July. The study group consisted of a total of 44 patients who had been diagnosed with IUGR. Forty-three low-risk and gestational age-matched pregnant women were taken as control group. Demographic data, maternal serum SESN2 levels, and maternal-neonatal outcomes were evaluated. SESN2 levels were analyzed by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method and compared between groups. RESULTS: Maternal serum SESN2 levels were significantly higher in the IUGR group compared to control group (22.38 ng/ml vs. 13.0 ng/ml, p < 0.001). In correlation analysis, a negative significant correlation was found between SESN2 levels and gestational week at delivery (r = - 0.387, p < 0.001). The ideal cut-off value for detecting IUGR was 9.5 ng/ml, and the area under the curve was 0.719 (95%CI: 0.610-0.827). Birth interval, gestational week at birth, birth weight, and 1-5-min Apgar scores were lower in the IUGR group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Maternal serum SESN2 levels are elevated in IUGR and are associated with adverse neonatal outcome. Considering that SESN2 is involved in pathogenesis, it can be used as a new marker for the evaluation of IUGR.

Comparison of Cavum Septum Pellucidum Size in Euploid and Aneuploid Fetuses / Comparação do tamanho do cavum septum pellicidium em fetos euploides e aneuploides

Abstract Objective The aim of the present study is to compare the cavum septum pellucidi (CSP) z-score in euploid and aneuploid fetuses and to investigate the performance of the CSP width/length and CSP width/biparietal diameter (BPD) ratios as a diagnostic marker in aneuploidy. Methods A total of 54 patients, 20 aneuploid and 35 euploid fetuses, between 18 and 37 weeks of gestation, were included in this retrospective study. The CSP width z-score was compared between the two groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated for the CSP width/length and CSP width/BPD ratios to predict aneuploidy. Results The median CSP width was 4.8 mm (range, 1.8 to 8.5 mm) in the euploid group, and 5.4 mm (range 3.1 to 8.4 mm) in the aneuploid group. Cavum septum pellucidi width z-score, CSP width/length ratio, and CSP width/BPD ratio were significantly higher in fetuses with aneuploidy than in fetuses with normal karyotype (p= 0.001; p= 0.013; p= 0.028). In the ROC analysis, the CSP width/length ratio had the optimal cutoff value of 0.59, with 72.0% sensitivity and 58.0% specificity, and for the CSP width/BPD ratio, the cutoff value was 0.081 with 83.0% sensitivity and 61.0% specificity for detection of aneuploidy. Conclusion CSP width z-score was found to be increased in aneuploid fetuses. The CSP width /BPD ratio can be used as a new marker for predicting aneuploidy.

Resumo Objetivo: O objetivo do presente estudo é comparar o escore z do cavum septum pellucidi (CSP) em fetos euploides e aneuploides e investigar o desempenho das relações largura/comprimento do CSP e largura do CSP/diâmetro biparietal (BPD) como marcador diagnóstico de aneuploidia. como marcador de diagnóstico de aneuploidia. Métodos: Um total de 54 pacientes, 20 fetos aneuploides e 35 fetos euploides, entre 18 e 37 semanas de gestação, foram incluídos neste estudo retrospectivo. O escore z da largura da CSP foi comparado entre os dois grupos. As curvas ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) foram calculadas para as relações largura/comprimento da PEC e largura da PEC/BPD para prever a aneuploidia. Resultados: A largura mediana da CSP foi de 4,8 mm (variação de 1,8 a 8,5 mm) no grupo euploide e de 5,4 mm (variação de 3,1 a 8,4 mm) no grupo aneuploide. O escore z da largura do cavum septum pellucidi, a relação largura/comprimento do CSP e a relação largura do CSP/BPD foram significativamente maiores em fetos com aneuploidia do que em fetos com cariótipo normal (p < 0,001; p < 0,013; p < 0,028). Na análise ROC, a relação largura/comprimento da CSP teve o valor de corte ideal de 0,59, com 72,0% de sensibilidade e 58,0% de especificidade, e para a relação largura da CSP/BPD, o valor de corte foi de 0,081, com 83,0% de sensibilidade e 61,0% de especificidade para a detecção de aneuploidia. Conclusão: Verificou-se que o escore z da largura da CSP estava aumentado em fetos aneuploides. A relação A relação largura da CSP /BPD pode ser usada como um novo marcador para prever a aneuploidia.