Association of Homocysteine, Vitamin and Blood Factors with Preeclampsia in Pregnant Women

Introduction & Preeclampsia is a disease with worldwide importance to mothers and infants, where it accounts for 20–80% of the strikingly increased maternal mortality. The lack of enzymes added to the homocysteine metabolism or the cofactors necessary for its metabolism (folate, B6 vitamin, B12 vitamin) cause hyperhomocysteinemia. Abnormal serum lipid profiles such as cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglyceride are associated with endothelial dysfunction. Recently high levels of B-HCG have been identified as a potential marker for developing preeclampsia. The purpose of this study was to identify the possible association of homocysteine, vitamin and some serum factors levels with preeclampsia in pregnant women. A case control study was performed prospectively on normotensive healthy pregnant women (80) and pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia (80) referring to Imam Sadjad hospital in Yasuj, between September 2004 to August 2005. In addition to the obstetric evaluation and laboratory examination in the 3rd trimester of gestation, blood samples were taken from all cases for homocysteine and vitamin B12, folic acid, triglyceride, cholesterol, LDL, HDL, B-HCG analysis. The samples were evaluated by Immunoassay (ELISA). Univariant and logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of outcomes. The mean plasma level of total homocysteine was significantly higher in preeclamptic women compared with normal pregnancy(p<0/05). No significant differences were observed in B12 concentrations and plasma folic acid (P>0.05). Triglyceride and cholesterol levels were significantly higher in preeclamptic women compared with normal pregnant women(p<0/05). LDL and HDL levels were not correlated with preeclampsia. There was no significant association between preeclampsia and B-HCG levels. Homocysteine, triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations increase in preeclampsia but decrease of vitamin B12 and folic acid levels was not observed in preeclampsia. LDL, HDL and B-HCG levels were not different between preeclamptic women and women with normal pregnancy.