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Abstract
Objective
The aim of our study was to evaluate HE4 serum concentrations throughout uncomplicated pregnancies in the absence of adnexal masses.
Methods
In a retrospectively designed, monocentric study (Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, General Hospital Celje, Celje, Slovenia, EU), 229 women with uncomplicated pregnancies were included. HE4 levels were obtained and analyzed with regard to gestational age of pregnancy.
Results
While having all HE4 levels within reference range, differences in mean concentrations between study groups were found be statistically significant (Group I, n = 22, <20 weeks of pregnancy, mean = 42.2 pmol/L; Group II, n = 40, pregnancies between 20–34 weeks of pregnancy, mean = 43.6 pmol/L; Group III, n = 167, ≥34 weeks of pregnancy, mean = 57.5 pmol/L, p < .001).
Conclusion
Our findings confirmed that HE4 levels in uncomplicated pregnancies are within reference range provided by manufacturer, however its serum concentration rises significantly in third trimester. The HE4 cutoff value (<140 pmol/L) used for nonpregnant women can be helpful in the evaluation of adnexal masses in pregnancy.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).