Type of test Blood
Normal findings
Nonpregnant women: < 50 pg/mL
Pregnant women at 22 weeks’ gestation: ≥ 200 pg/mL
Test explanation and related physiology
Preeclampsia is one of the most common medical complications of pregnancy and is associated with considerable maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. PGF is a protein that is produced during pregnancy by the placental trophoblast. Normally, PGF rises steadily throughout pregnancy to levels exceeding 500 pg/mL. When PGF is tested at 13 to 16 weeks of gestation and it is found to be significantly decreased, the patient is at considerable risk for preeclampsia. Likewise, patients with markedly increased levels of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), which is a known inhibitor of PGF, are also at risk for preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia can be predicted by a combination of fac tors in the maternal history, including black racial origin, high body mass index, family history of preeclampsia, and personal history of preeclampsia. Screening at risk women with PGF, sFlt-1, PAPP-A, and uterine artery Doppler would identify women who would develop early and late preeclampsia. Intensive maternal and fetal monitoring could improve pregnancy outcomes.
Procedure and patient care
• See inside front cover for Routine Blood Testing.
• Fasting: no
• Blood tube commonly used: red
Abnormal findings
Decreased blood levels
- Hypertension
- Preeclampsia
