Sudha Bhimavarapu1 , E. Vidya Bhargavi2
BACKGROUND Chromosomal abnormalities are important causes of perinatal death and childhood handicap. Early diagnosis of chromosomal defects is therefore essential to reduce perinatal mortality rate and to prevent the agony of the mother caring for the abnormal child. We wanted to screen for chromosomal abnormalities namely trisomy 21, 18 & 13, during the first trimester of pregnancy using biochemical tests like free β-hCG, PAPP-A and study the maternal & foetal outcome of these pregnancies. METHODS This is a prospective study conducted among women who were in their first trimester. After obtaining informed consent, a total of 100 pregnant women both primi & multi gravida in their first trimester were selected and properly designed proformas were filled with relevant information. RESULTS Prevalence of high risk after the double marker test is 7%; none of them had chromosomal anomalies. However, low PAPP-A (<0.52 MoM) was significantly associated with increased preeclampsia, preterm delivery, and miscarriage. CONCLUSIONS Low PAPP-A shows an association with preeclampsia, preterm labour, and miscarriage. It is a useful indicator of risk of preterm delivery and future chance of development of pregnancy-induced hypertension.
