Fetal inherited thrombophilias influence the severity of preeclampsia, IUGR and placental abruption.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether common inherited thrombophilias in the fetus influence the severity of severe preeclampsia, IUGR and placental abruption.

DESIGN

A case-control study among patients with complicated pregnancies. Cases were defined as fetuses with thrombophilia.

SETTING

A university hospital with 3700 deliveries per year.

POPULATION: Seventy cases with severe preeclampsia, IUGR or placental abruption.

METHODS

Mothers and neonates were tested for mutation of factor V Leiden, prothrombin gene and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Gestational age at delivery, birth weight and early neonatal complications.

RESULTS

Gestational age at delivery and birth weight were significantly lower in fetuses with factor V Leiden or prothrombin gene mutation compared to control fetuses.

CONCLUSIONS

Fetal factor V Leiden mutation and prothrombin gene mutation may influence the course of severe preeclampsia, IUGR and placental abruption. These thrombophilic changes may cause an earlier appearance or lead to a late pregnancy complication of a greater severity.