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[Studies on hypogeusia in hyperemesis gravidarum]
Y Mizumoto1, T Okuyama, R Endo
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, SDF Central Hospital, Tokyo.
Nihon Sanka Fujinka Gakkai Zasshi
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Hyperemesis gravidarum patients show reduced taste sensitivity and altered serum levels of trace elements and lipids. These gustatory changes may indicate damage to biological defense systems against free radicals.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Sensory Science
Context:
- Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
- Altered taste perception and nutritional deficiencies are common in HG.
- The role of gustatory changes and serum biomarkers in HG pathophysiology requires further investigation.
Purpose:
- To investigate alterations in gustatory sensitivities and serum levels of trace elements, vitamin E, and lipids in women with hyperemesis gravidarum.
- To compare these parameters between HG patients, normal pregnant women, and healthy non-pregnant women.
- To explore the potential of gustatory testing as a diagnostic aid for HG.
Summary:
- Patients with hyperemesis gravidarum exhibited significantly lowered gustatory sensitivity to sweetness and altered gustation threshold levels compared to controls.
- Serum levels of zinc and magnesium decreased, while copper increased in HG patients and normal pregnant women.
- Decreased total cholesterol and phospholipid, alongside increased lipid peroxide, were observed in HG patients, suggesting impaired antioxidant defense systems.
Impact:
- Gustatory testing may serve as a valuable tool for the investigation and potential diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum.
- The findings suggest that HG is associated with oxidative stress and damage to scavenger systems, impacting nutritional status.
- This research contributes to understanding the complex interplay between taste perception, nutrient metabolism, and pregnancy complications.