Prevalence and Clinical Significance of Factor V Leiden Mutation in Egyptian Preeclamptic Women

Background: Factor V [Leiden] mutation, also known as activated protein-C resistance, is the most common of the inherited thrombophilias. Aim of the work: The present study aimed to ass the prevalence of factor V Leiden mutation in a group of Egyptian pregnant women and its relation to maternal and neonatal outcomes. Patients and methods: The present prospective study included 130 preeclamptic women with a singleton pregnancy in the 3rd trimester. Blood samples were obtained for DNA analysis to assay factor V Leiden mutation. Transabdominal obstetric ultrasound examination was performed to confirm the fetal number, viability, presentation, estimated fetal weight, position & grade of the placenta, amount of liquor, biophysical profile, and gestational age. This was achieved through the measurements of the biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length. Flow velocity waveforms were obtained from each uterine artery. Results: Factor V Leiden [FVL] mutation was identified in 20 patients [15.4 %]. Comparison between women with FVL and women without revealed a significantly higher frequency of intrauterine growth restriction [IUGR], intrauterine fetal death  [IUFD], small for gestational age [SGA], preterm labor, and intensive care unit [ICU] admission among women with FVL mutation. They also have a significantly higher frequency of abnormal Doppler findings, abruptio placenta, and placental infarction. Conclusion: The present study suggested that maternal and neonatal complications in PE patients may be related to FVL, abnormal uterine artery Doppler findings, and placental infarction.