Altered inflammatory and coagulation markers in women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss: A case-control study.

BACKGROUND

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a common pregnancy complication that significantly influences the lives of many couples worldwide. Previous studies have indicated that RPL may be associated with coagulation and inflammatory factors.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between calprotectin levels and coagulation disorders in women with RPL.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

In this case-control study, a total of 100 women aged between 18 and 45 yr who had been admitted to Golestan hospital, Ahvaz, Iran from February 2024 to January 2025 enrolled. Participants were divided into 2 groups: women with RPL as the case group (n = 50), and women with no history of infertility or miscarriage as the control group (n = 50). Blood samples collected, and levels of protein C, protein S, and calprotectin measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and chromogenic assays.

RESULTS

Protein S levels were significantly lower in the RPL group compared to controls (p = 0.03), whereas protein C and calprotectin levels did not differ significantly between the 2 groups (p = 0.14, 0.17). Altered hematological parameters, including a higher prevalence of anemia, were noted in RPL cases. Logistic regression indicated that reduced protein S levels were associated with a 4.38-fold increased risk of RPL.

CONCLUSION

This study reinforces the role of protein S deficiency in RPL, suggesting that even modest reductions may predispose placental thrombosis and fetal loss. Although protein C and calprotectin levels did not differ significantly, the results underscore the importance of evaluating both coagulation profiles and inflammatory markers in RPL.