Publication:

An observational study on level of serum lipid profile in early second trimester as a predictor of pre-eclampsia and relation of different dyslipidemias with pre-eclampsia

Background Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy condition that affects 2–8% of pregnant women worldwide and significantly increase the incidence of morbidity and mortality for both mother and newborns. Dyslipidemia has been implicated as a predictor of PE due to its role in endothelial dysfunction and vascular damage. This study aimed to evaluate the serum lipid profile in the early second trimester (14–20 weeks) as a predictor of Preeclampsia and to investigate the relationship between PE risk and dyslipidemia.

Methods This descriptive observational study was conducted at BRD Medical College, Gorakhpur, from May 2023 to April 2024. A total of 171 pregnant women (14–20 weeks gestation) were included, with exclusion criteria such as preexisting hypertension, diabetes, and multiple pregnancies. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for lipid profiles, and participants were categorized based on National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) guidelines into normal or abnormal lipid profile groups. Blood pressure was monitored, and participants were followed until 48 hours postpartum to confirm PE diagnoses.

Results Among the participants, 21.6% developed PE, with dyslipidemia observed in 71.3% of the total sample. Key lipid profile parameters (triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL, and VLDL) were significantly elevated in those with PE, while HDL was reduced. The most accurate lipid predictor of PE was total cholesterol, with an accuracy of 68.2%, sensitivity of 81.1%, and specificity of 55.3%.

Conclusion The study emphasizes how early second-trimester lipid profile can be used to predict PE. Increased PE risk was linked to elevated levels of LDL, VLDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Early identification and management of dyslipidemia could reduce maternal and neonatal complications, underscoring its importance in antenatal care.