Serum Uric acid level in preeclampsia and its correlation to maternal and fetal outcome.

Abstract

Introduction: Preeclampsia and Eclampsia are serious complications of pregnancy. They are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the world and one of the leading causes for perinatal mortality also.  Biochemical parameters like serum levels of Urea, Uric Acid, Creatinine, LDH, Transaminases increase significantly in Preeclampsia/eclampsia. Aim of the study: Aim of the study was to Estimate the level of serum uric acid in preeclampsia/eclampsia, Correlate Hyperuricemia with the severity of Preeclampsia and Study its effect on maternal and fetal outcome. Study design: Prospective   study, conducted at the Government Lady Goschen Hospital, Mangalore, Karnataka India, during the years from June 1997 to June 1999, with recent updates.                                                            Method: 100 consecutive patients with preeclampsia/Eclampsia all having singleton pregnancy were included in the study. Necessary laboratory investigations from samples of blood and urine were performed. Special investigations like Ultrasonography and fundoscopy were conducted. Maternal and perinatal complications were studied in patients with preeclampsia with elevated uric acid levels. Results: In patients with serum uric acid level of >5.5mg/dl, 86.4% had perinatal deaths and      60 % of patients with uric acid levels > 5.5 mg/dl had preterm delivery. All the babies born to mothers who had this value had birth weight < 2.5 kgs, 68% of them being Small for Gestational Age. Conclusions: Hence by serial monitoring of serum Uric acid level we would be able to ascertain the severity and progression of the disease process and prompt termination of pregnancy would prevent maternal complications, improve fetal outcome and reduce perinatal mortality