HE4 levels in uncomplicated pregnancies: are there any differences?

Area of Science:

• Reproductive medicine
• Biochemistry
• Gynecologic oncology

Background:

• Human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) is a tumor marker often used in evaluating adnexal masses.
• Its role and concentration patterns during pregnancy require specific investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess HE4 serum concentrations in uncomplicated pregnancies.
• To determine if HE4 levels change with gestational age.
• To evaluate the utility of the nonpregnant HE4 cutoff in pregnant patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective monocentric study.
• Inclusion of 229 women with uncomplicated pregnancies.
• Analysis of HE4 serum levels in relation to gestational age.

Main Results:

• All HE4 levels were within the manufacturer's reference range.
• Statistically significant differences in mean HE4 concentrations were observed across gestational age groups.
• Mean HE4 levels increased from 42.2 pmol/L (<20 weeks) to 57.5 pmol/L (≥34 weeks).

Conclusions:

• HE4 levels are within normal reference ranges during pregnancy.
• A significant rise in HE4 serum concentration occurs in the third trimester.
• The HE4 cutoff value (<140 pmol/L) for nonpregnant women is applicable for evaluating adnexal masses during pregnancy.