Combination of PAPPA, fhCGβ, AFP, PlGF, sTNFR1, and Maternal Characteristics in Prediction of Early-onset Preeclampsia

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of first-trimester markers–-pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPPA), free human chorionic gonadotropin β (fhCGβ), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), placental growth factor (PlGF), and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor-1 (sTNFR1) together with maternal characteristics (MC) for prediction of early-onset preeclampsia (EOPE). Methods During 2005-2010, the abovementioned biomarkers were analyzed with logistic regression analysis in 64 EOPE and 752 control subjects to determine whether these biomarkers separately and in combination with MC would predict development of EOPE. Results PAPPA, fhCGβ, and PlGF levels were lower, whereas AFP and sTNFR1 levels were higher in mothers with EOPE compared to controls. The combination of all markers with MC (age, weight, and smoking status) detected 48% of the mothers with EOPE, with a 10% false-positive rate (FPR). Conclusions First-trimester maternal serum levels of PAPPA, fhCGβ, AFP, PlGF, and sTNFR1, together with MC, are predictive of development of subsequent EOPE. These markers, along with MC, form a suitable panel for predicting EOPE.