Evaluation of Serum Lipid Profile in Pre-eclampsia and Normotensive Pregnancy in Rural Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: In developing countries, pre-eclampsia is a common medical complication in pregnancy. It is one of the largest causes for maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. Abnormal lipid profile have been shown to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of abnormal serum lipid profile parameters in pathogenesis of preeclampsia. The objectives were to measure all lipid profile parameters and to study the correlation of dyslipidaemia (abnormal lipid metabolism) in pre-eclampsia in comparison with normotensive pregnant women. Material and Methods: In this hospital-based case control study, blood samples from 30 pre-eclamptic pregnant women (case group) and 30 normal pregnant women (control group) were collected and analysed for serum lipid profile. Results: On comparison of normotensive pregnant women with pre-eclamptic women, the levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides were found to be significantly increased (P values ≤ 0.001) and that of HDL cholesterol levels were found to be significantly decreased (P values ≤ 0.001) in pre-eclamptic women. Conclusion: Abnormal lipid metabolism in pre-eclampsia is associated with development of atherosclerotic diseases. Someasurement of serum lipids profile may be helpful in early diagnosis and prevention of maternal and fetal complications in preeclampsia.