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Androgens and hyperemesis gravidarum: a case-control study.
Ragnhild Helseth1, Merethe Ravlo2, Sven M Carlsen3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken, 3004 Drammen, Norway.
European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology
|January 30, 2014
Summary
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is linked to altered hormone levels, specifically higher androstanediol glucuronide (ADG) and lower androstenedione. This suggests a hormonal imbalance may contribute to severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive endocrinology
- Pregnancy physiology
- Hormone metabolism
Background:
- Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe pregnancy complication.
- Its pathogenesis is likely multifactorial, involving hormonal influences.
- Previous studies suggest a link between androgen concentrations and emesis gravidarum.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate androgen concentrations in women experiencing HG.
- To explore the potential continuum between emesis gravidarum and HG.
- To identify specific hormonal markers associated with HG.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study comparing 32 women with HG to 29 matched controls.
- Measurement of various hormones including dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), androstenedione, testosterone, and others.
- Statistical analyses included Mann-Whitney tests and multivariate linear regression.
Main Results:
- Women with HG showed significantly higher concentrations of androstanediol glucuronide (ADG) and estradiol.
- Conversely, androstenedione and insulin levels were lower in women with HG.
- Multivariate analysis confirmed an association between HG and high ADG and low androstenedione.
Conclusions:
- Steroid hormone homeostasis appears to be altered in women with HG.
- High ADG and low androstenedione concentrations are potentially associated with the condition.
- These findings may offer insights into the pathophysiology of HG.
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