Effect of prolidase on the development of varicose veins in pregnant women

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Varicose veins are more common during pregnancy and, if left untreated, can cause venous insufficiency and edema in the legs. Women have venous insufficiency both before and after pregnancy. According to research, the cytosolic metalloproteinase prolidase regulates the breakdown of collagen and other proteins in the extracellular matrix. Prolidase deficiency, which impairs the enzyme's normal function, has severe clinical manifestations. The objective of this study is to discover how the enzyme prolidase influences the development of varicose veins in pregnant women.
 
 Materials and Methods: This study included approximately 70 women aged 25-45 years who were pregnant in their third trimester. The participants were assigned to two groups based on diagnosis of having varicose veins (n=40) and those without (n=30). Quantitative measurements of serum progesterone and prolidase concentrations were made. Data collected was subjected to statistical analysis.
 
 Results: Varicose veins were prevalent in 57.14% of the pregnant women, the severity of which increased with age. The mean blood concentrations of progesterone and prolidase levels were higher in pregnant women with varicose veins in comparison to controls.
 
 Conclusion: Chronic venous insufficiency and mild varicose veins are more common in pregnant women aged 40 years and above. An increased level of progesterone and prolidase enzyme in serum was seen to be associated with chronic varicose insufficiency in pregnant women.