The role of PAPP-A and free B-HCG, which are among the first trimester tests, in predicting pregnancy complications

Aim: In our study, we aimed to evaluate the predictive value of first-trimester maternal serum PAPP-A (Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein-A) and B-HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels in predicting pregnancy complications. Material and Methods: The study included 489 singleton pregnancies undergoing first-trimester screening at the antenatal clinic, with perinatal records examined both before and after birth. Cases with PAPP-A <0.4 MoM and B-HCG <0.5 MoM values were investigated for associations with miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, fetal death, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), small for gestational age (SGA), large for gestational age (LGA), preterm labor, premature rupture of membrane (PROM), preterm premature membrane rupture (PPROM), cholestasis, and newborn requirements. Results: In our study, patients with low PAPP-A values had a 2.6 times higher prevalence of preeclampsia, while in the B-HCG group, the prevalence was 2 times higher. Additionally, there was no significant association between the high-risk group and GDM, SGA, IUGR, and PROM. Discussion: It has been observed that PAPP-A and HCG levels examined in the first trimester are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in the later weeks of pregnancy.