[The relationship between epidermal growth factor and its receptor and fetal birth weight]

To investigate the relationship of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its receptor (EGFR) with fetal birth weight.

Using enzyme linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA) method the EGF concentrations of materal sera, cord blood sera and amniotic fluids were determined in 40 cases with IUGR, 40 cases with term normal birth weight, 25 cases with fetal macrosomias and 15 cases with normal non-pregnant women. Simultaneously using the immunohistochemical method EGFR in placentas and fetal membrance was determined in all groups of pregnancy.

The EGF levels in normal non-pregnant women were lower than that in all groups of pregnancy. The EGF concentrations of materal sera, cord blood sera and amniotic fluid in IUGR group were lower than that in normal birth weight group. EGF levels were no difference between fetal macrosomias group and normal birth weight group. There is a positive correlation between the fetal birth weight and EGF concentrations in maternal sera, cord blood sera and amniotic fluids. In IUGR group the number of EGFR in placent and fetal membrane was less than that in normal birth weight group. In macrosomia group placental EGFR number was more than that in normal birth weight group.

EGF and its receptor levels are related with IUGR, EGF concentrations in maternal sera and amniotic fluids in the third trimester may be a valuable index for assessing the fetal growth.