EVALUATION OF CORTICOTROPIN RELEASING HORMONE (CRH) IN PREECLAMPSIA

Abstract

Background: CRH level is increased during normal pregnancy as it is released from the placenta. This implies a definite role of CRH in pregnancy or labor. CRH is a hormone of stress and as stress has been implicated in the basic pathophysiology of preeclampsia, a greater rise of CRH is expected in this condition.
Objectives: To evaluate the level of CRH in normal pregnancy and compare it with pregnancies complicated with preeclampsia.
Study design: This case controlled prospective study was done in the department of physiology and clinical lab of Isra University Hyderabad. Forty three diagnosed cases of preeclampsia were selected in their 31-34 weeks of gestation. Forty three age and gestational matched controls were included who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Blood sample was taken and level of CRH was determined by Elisa method by specific kit.
Results: Mean CRH value in cases of preeclampsia at 31-34 weeks of gestation was 60.33 + 10.47 ng/ml. The mean CRH value in age and gestational age matched controls was 50.03 + 09.33 ng/ml. The mean CRH value was significantly higher in preeclampsia patients as compared to the controls (p < .001).
Conclusion: It is concluded that CRH levels are significantly raised in preeclampsia as compared to the normal pregnancy. This indicates a