Androgen Levels in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy in Patients with Preeclampsia

Abstract

Background: Although the aetiology of pre-eclampsia is not entirely known, numerous theories have been put in relation to its causes.  Finding its risk factors is crucial because to its morbid course. However, because to a lack of information regarding its origin, numerous  studies have been conducted on a variety of materials in an effort to identify its causes. One of these ideas focuses on the underlying  endocrine changes and quantification of different androgens.

Objective: This study aimed to compare between androgens level (serum  total and free testosterone) in women with preeclampsia and normal ones in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy (28-40 weeks).

Patients and  methods: During this study, 80 pregnant women were enrolled in this study. They were divided into two groups: Group A comprised  40 pregnant women in their 3rd trimester with preeclampsia at the time of admission, whereas group B consisted of 40  healthy normotensive women in their 3rd trimester who served as control group A with matched maternal age, gestational age, and  BMI.

Results: Our study revealed that free and total testosterone levels were significantly higher among pre-eclamptic cases compared  to healthy women with no differences regarding maternal age, gestational age and fetal sex.

Conclusion: Pre-eclamptic women had  greater serum androgen levels (free and total testosterones) throughout the 3 rd trimester of pregnancy, this may suggest that  androgens have a role in the development of pre-eclampsia.