Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor: Novel markers for unexplained early recurrent pregnancy loss

Abstract

Abstract Objective To evaluate the role of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for prediction of pregnancy loss in patients with history of unexplained early recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Methods A prospective case control study was conducted in 42 women with history of unexplained early RPL, and 170 pregnant controls with history of uncomplicated pregnancy. We measured maternal serum sFlt-1 and VEGF at gestational age 6–9 weeks as predictor for pregnancy loss. Results Mean serum levels of sFlt-1 and VEGF were significantly higher in RPL group than controls (10439.7±385.4 vs 3304.5±104.8; P vs 709.8±24.8; P OR ) 206 [95%confidence interval ( CI ), 45.4–941]. Cutoff value of 915.5 pg/mL for VEGF was predictor for early pregnancy loss with 92.9% sensitivity, 90.6% specificity, and OR 125 [95% CI: 34.7–451]. Conclusion These data advocate a relationship between sFlt-1, VEGF, and RPL suggesting that the high levels of sFlt-1 and VEGF might be associated with the pathogenesis of RPL.