Soluble fms-like Tyrosine Kinase 1

Abstract

To the Editor: Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1), a splice variant of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor Flt1 and a potent inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor, has been shown to be elevated in pregnant women with preeclampsia.1 A clinical study showed that increased plasma concentrations of sFlt1 are detectable about five weeks before the onset of the disorder.2 We wondered whether abnormal uterine perfusion in the second trimester is associated with increased sFlt1 levels, since disturbed uterine perfusion can identify high-risk pregnancies that are later complicated by preeclampsia or intrauterine growth retardation. However, the finding of abnormal . . .