[Diagnostic value of some pregnancy-associated proteins]

As biochemical markers for early diagnosis of disturbed pregnancies the placental proteins have been found special interest. It is suggested that measuring the serum concentration of placental proteins may have prognostic value in predicting the course of pregnancy. Furthermore, the activity of decidual tissue as well as the state of the menstrual cycle can be monitored. In this a review is given comprising the characteristics and possible clinical applications of these proteins, especially with respect to placental protein 12 (PP12), placental protein 14 (PP14) and the pregnancy associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A).