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Erythrocyte deformability and erythrocyte aggregation in preeclampsia
D J Pepple1, M R Hardeman, A M Mullings
1Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica. dpepple@uwimona.edu.jm
Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation
|May 10, 2001
Summary
This study found no significant differences in blood rheology, magnesium levels, or immunoglobulin titres between preeclamptic women and controls. These key parameters do not appear altered in mild preeclampsia.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hematology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Preeclampsia is associated with impaired blood rheology, affecting erythrocyte aggregation and deformability.
- Blood viscosity is influenced by erythrocyte aggregation and deformability.
- Magnesium, fibrinogen, and immunoglobulin levels may also be altered in preeclampsia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate erythrocyte aggregation and deformability in preeclampsia.
- To measure serum and intraerythrocytic magnesium concentrations in preeclampsia.
- To assess immunoglobulin titres and fibrinogen concentration in preeclampsia.
Main Methods:
- Erythrocyte aggregation (t 1/2) and deformability (EI) were measured using the Laser-assisted Optical Rotational Cell Analyser (LORCA).
- Magnesium concentrations were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry.
- Immunoglobulin titres and fibrinogen concentration were determined using radial immunodiffusion and clot weight technique, respectively.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences were observed in erythrocyte deformability (EI) between preeclamptic women and controls.
- Erythrocyte aggregation (t 1/2) showed no significant difference between the groups.
- Serum and intraerythrocytic magnesium concentrations, fibrinogen levels, and immunoglobulin titres were not significantly altered in preeclampsia.
Conclusions:
- Erythrocyte deformability and aggregation are not significantly altered in mild preeclampsia.
- Serum and intraerythrocytic magnesium, fibrinogen, and immunoglobulin levels do not appear to be significantly affected in mild preeclampsia.
- Further research is needed in severe preeclampsia and in patients receiving magnesium sulfate treatment.