Comparative analysis of thyroid function parameters in pregnant women

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Reproductive Medicine
• Clinical Chemistry

Background:

• Thyroid hormone levels dynamically change during pregnancy.
• Established reference intervals for thyroid hormones may not be suitable for pregnant populations.
• Understanding these changes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate serum levels of FT3, FT4, and TSH in pregnant women across different gestational ages.
• To compare these levels with those in non-pregnant women.
• To evaluate the suitability of current reference intervals for pregnant women.

Main Methods:

• Serum samples collected from pregnant women (divided by gestational age) and non-pregnant controls.
• Measurement of FT3, FT4, and TSH using magnetic microparticle chemiluminescence immunoassay.
• Statistical comparison of marker levels among groups and with controls.

Main Results:

• FT3 and FT4 levels significantly decreased with advancing gestational age.
• TSH levels significantly increased throughout pregnancy.
• Pregnant women generally had lower FT3 and FT4 levels compared to controls, with TSH lower except in late pregnancy.

Conclusions:

• Thyroid hormone profiles differ significantly between pregnant and non-pregnant women.
• Current reference intervals for thyroid hormones are inadequate for pregnant women.
• Development of pregnancy-specific reference intervals based on local data is recommended.