The value of red cell distribution width for predicting subsequent preeclampsia

Purpose: The purpose of our study was too assess the diagnostic value of red cell distribution width and other inflammatory markers such as white blood cell count and mean platelet volume during the first trimester of gestation for predicting the subsequent development of preeclampsia.Material and Methods: A retrospective study was performed on 137 patients with preeclampsia and 150 normotensive pregnant women. Study group was assessed for presence of preeclampsia and the values of first trimester red cell distribution width, white blood cell count and mean platelet volume. The receiver operator curve was used to evaluate cut-off, sensitivity and specificity values.Results: The optimal cut-off points to predict preeclampsia were a white blood cell count 10200 cells/mm3 or higher with a sensitivity of 75.1% and specificity of 44.1%, a mean platelet volume 8.6fL or lower with a sensitivity of 62.5% and specificity of 64.4% and a red cell distribution width 15.3% or lower with a sensitivity of 31.2% and specificity of 79.7%.Conclusion: Regarding the association between first trimester red cell distribution width, white blood cell count and mean platelet volume, statistical analysis revealed that these markers were weak predictors of preeclampsia