[Serum copper levels in early pregnancy complicated by symptoms of spontaneous abortion and infection].

INTRODUCTION

The study evaluates serum levels of copper, chorionic gonadotropin, estradiol, progesterone and prolactin in patients with symptoms of miscarriage and in uncomplicated pregnancies in cases with or without cervical or vaginal infections detected by vaginal or cervical smears, as well as Chlamydia testing.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

The study included 50 patients with symptoms of threatening miscarriage and 50 patients with uncomplicated pregnancies. Hormone levels were determined by ELISA method and copper was evaluated by acid medium colorimetry.

RESULTS

We found that values of serum copper, estradiol, progesterone and prolactin were significantly lower in patients with lower genital tract infection.

CONCLUSION

Decreased levels of serum copper could be used as a method of choice for detecting infection during the first trimester of pregnancy.