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Increased high molecular weight fibrinogen in pre-eclampsia
G T R Manten1, J M Sikkema, A Franx
1Department of Perinatology and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, F05.829, PO Box 85090, 3508 AB, Utrecht, The Netherlands. wmanten@kabelfoon.nl
Thrombosis Research
|December 18, 2003
Summary
Pre-eclampsia elevates total fibrinogen (Fg) and high molecular weight fibrinogen (HMW-Fg) levels in pregnant patients. This suggests a link between altered Fg fraction distribution and pre-eclampsia pathophysiology.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hematology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Fibrinogen (Fg) is a key coagulation protein existing in heterogeneous fractions, including high molecular weight fibrinogen (HMW-Fg).
- Pre-eclampsia is characterized by hypercoagulability and elevated fibrinogen levels.
- The distribution of Fg fractions in pre-eclampsia requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if increased total fibrinogen plasma concentration in pre-eclampsia is associated with altered distribution of main fibrinogen fractions.
- To compare fibrinogen fraction distribution between pre-eclamptic patients and healthy pregnant controls.
Main Methods:
- Plasma samples were collected from 14 pre-eclamptic patients and 14 healthy pregnant controls.
- Total fibrinogen was quantified using the Clauss assay.
- Percentage of HMW-Fg was determined by SDS-electrophoresis and densitometry after fibrinogen isolation.
Main Results:
- Total fibrinogen concentration was significantly higher in the pre-eclampsia group (median 5.04 g/l) compared to controls (median 4.19 g/l).
- The percentage of HMW-Fg was also significantly higher in pre-eclamptic patients (median 76.5%) versus controls (median 73.0%).
Conclusions:
- Pre-eclampsia is associated with increased total fibrinogen and a slightly elevated percentage of HMW-Fg compared to normal pregnancy.
- These findings may reflect an exaggerated inflammatory response and endothelial activation in pre-eclampsia.
- Altered fibrinogen fraction distribution could play a role in the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia.