Long-Term Predictors of Gestational Hypertension: Placental Growth Factor, Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein-A and Free Beta-Hcg Versus Mean Arterial Pressure and Uterine Artery Doppler Versus a Combination of Both: A Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND: According to WHO, hypertensive disease is the leading cause of direct maternal mortality accounting for 10-25% in developing countries (James in Heart, 90(12):1499-504). This study compares the combinations of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and uterine artery doppler (UAD) versus serum-free β HCG, pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A, and placental growth factor (PlGF) versus a combination of all variables at 11 to 13+6 as long-term predictors of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective, observational cohort study recruited 97 primigravidae at 11 to 13+6  weeks gestation at GMCH. Follow-up was done at 32-34 weeks and before delivery. Development of PIH, mode of delivery, birthweight, maternal and fetal adverse outcomes were documented, analyzed and compared among three groups. In Group A-biophysical markers, Group B-biochemical markers and in Group C all variables were used.

RESULTS: The mean age, maternal weight, height and BMI of patients developing gestational hypertension were 30 ± 5 years, 64.3 ± 12.5 kg, 155.8 ± 5.5 cm and 26.4 ± 4.1, respectively. Out of the 3, Group C is the best screening test for predicting the overall chance of development of gestational hypertension with a sensitivity of 97.37% and specificity of 38.98% ( p  < 0.0001). A mild negative correlation is seen between PlGF levels and severity of PIH ( p -0.0382).

CONCLUSION: MAP and UAD can be easily incorporated into the infrastructure of most hospitals. If the biochemical test kits are made available at a low cost through available programs such as JSSK, it can bring down the MMR by preventing gestational hypertension.