Procalcitonin- A Biomarker for Severity of Preeclampsia

Abstract Introduction: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, affecting approximately 10% of pregnancies, include chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia. Preeclampsia poses significant risks, including maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as procalcitonin (PCT), have been observed in preeclampsia, indicating its potential as a biomarker. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the levels of procalcitonin (PCT) in preeclamptic patients compared to normotensive pregnant women, to explore its potential as a biomarker for preeclampsia. Methods: This prospective study included antenatal women between 30-34 weeks gestation, divided into two groups: Group A (preeclamptic) and Group B (normotensive). Clinical assessments, including blood pressure measurements, were conducted. Serum procalcitonin was measured using the VITROS B.R.A.H.M.S test. Statistical analysis compared mean PCT levels between groups and evaluated correlations with clinical parameters. Results: Group A (preeclampsia) had significantly higher systolic (155.56±3.26 mmHg) and diastolic (94.76±3.02 mmHg) blood pressure compared to Group B (120.32±6.24 mmHg and 84.63±3.44 mmHg, respectively; p<0.0001). Mean procalcitonin levels were also significantly higher in Group A (0.55±0.26) versus Group B (0.04±0.02; p<0.0001). Positive correlations were found between PCT levels and systolic (r=0.39) and diastolic blood pressure (r=0.41) and corelation of procalcitonin with severity of preeclampsia. Conclusion: Pregnant women with preeclampsia exhibit elevated procalcitonin levels compared to those with normal pregnancies, suggesting that PCT may reflect the heightened inflammatory response associated with preeclampsia. These findings indicate PCT's potential as a biomarker for early diagnosis and severity differentiation in preeclampsia.