Common stress and serum cortisol and IL-12 levels in missed abortion.

To investigate stress levels, serum cortisol levels, and changes in IL-12 concentration in patients with missed abortion. Patients with missed abortion (n = 48) were age and gestational age-matched with normal early pregnancy cases (n = 48). All subjects completed a stress evaluation survey questionnaire about common stressors. Venous blood samples were collected at 07.00 hours, and serum cortisol and IL-12 concentrations were measured by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay and ELISA methods, respectively. Missed abortion patients demonstrated a significantly higher number of common stressors and higher serum cortisol levels compared to controls (both p < 0.05). Dilation and curettage did not lead to significant differences in serum cortisol and IL-12 levels (p > 0.05). Stress and immunity alterations of the immune system may contribute to the aetiology of missed abortion.