PAPP-A concentrations change in patients with gestational diabetes

Abstract

Our aim was to assess the relationship between gestational diabetes and glucose intolerance regarding maternal serum PAPP-A and free β-hCG concentrations in first trimester pregnancies. This study was conducted on 278 women between 18-45 years old with singleton pregnancies. The subjects were divided into four groups, according to their 50 and 100 g OGTT results. Group 1 was the Control Group, Group 2 with positive 50 g OGTT results, but negative 100 g, Group 3 had gestational diabetes after testing with 50 g OGTT (≥180 mg/dl) or with 100 g OGTT. Finally Group 4 was made of women with a one single high glucose level after testing with 100 g OGTT. These groups were analysed in terms of OGTT results. In the GDM group, serum PAPP-A concentrations were significantly lower when compared with the Control Group's (<i>p</i> = 0.015). There was either no significant differences regarding free β-hCG concentrations among the groups. GDM rate is 21.1%, the patients with GDM had significantly low concentrations of serum PAPP-A but their f β-hCG concentrations did not change. Our results are supported by several studies. However, we need greater numbered studies for exact results.IMPACT STATEMENT<b>What is already known on this subject?</b> Pregnancy associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) is produced by the placenta in pregnancy. PAPP-A cleaves insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding proteins. It would appear to have a role in regulating IGF bioavailability in pregnancy. This is important as the IGF axis plays a critical role in fetal growth, and placental growth and function during pregnancy. Some studies have reported that PAPP-A levels were impaired among women who subsequently developed GDM.<b>What do the results of this study add?</b> The patients with GDM had significantly low concentrations of serum PAPP-A but their free β-hCG levels did not change.<b>What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research?</b> By looking at PAPP-A concentrations, we can predict patients that will be gestational diabetic and take precautions to protect the babies health, such as their diet or exercise.