Platelet activating factor levels in pre-eclampsia and normal pregnancy

Summary

The objective of the study was to compare platelet activating factor (PAF) concentrations in pre-eclamptic and healthy normotensive pregnant women. Blood samples for measurement of platelet count, urea and creatinine, and of PAF by thin layer chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography were obtained from seven pre-eclamptic and seven healthy primigravidae. The main outcomes were PAF concentrations in the pre-eclampsia and control groups and correlation of PAF concentrations with gestational age. PAF concentration in the pre-eclamptic group was lower than that of the controls (18˙8 versus 36˙0, P = 0˙001). Both groups exhibited a correlation between plasma PAF levels and gestational age (study group, r =-0˙84; control group, r=-0˙79). Decreased circulating PAF levels in the pre-eclamptic group may represent loss of physiological control of vascular reactivity and platelet function by PAF.