Predictive value of 3+ spot urinary protein value measured by dipstick in hypertensive pregnant patients

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate whether the spot urinary protein (SUP) level has predictive value on pregnancy outcomes in hypertensive pregnant patients. Methods: Retrospective case–control study of 109 pregnant patients with hypertension and spot urinary proteinuria measured by dipstick. Results: Presence of 24 h proteinuria was higher in patients with 3+ SUP. Gestational age at delivery was significantly lower in patients with 3+ SUP when compared with patients with ≤2+ SUP (p = 0.009). Rate of SGA babies was higher in patients with 3+ SUP when compared with patients with ≤2+ SUP (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Although it cannot replace 24 h urinary protein determination, 3+ proteinuria with dipstick may have a prognostic value, particularly in emergency cases.

• 24 h urinary protein
• Dipstick test
• Hypertension
• Preeclampsia
• Proteinuria