The possible role of serum leptin in preeclampsia.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: It is theorized that adipokines play a critical role in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia, particularly with their pro-inflammatory and inflammatory features. AIM: To investigate serum leptin levels in pregnancies complicated with preeclampsia and severe preeclampsia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Maternal serum leptin levels were analyzed by solid phase enzyme amplified sensitivity immunoassay (EASIA) method in 23 patients with mild preeclampsia, 29 patients with severe preeclampsia, and 28 healthy pregnant controls. RESULTS: Mean serum leptin levels did not differ statistically between patients with mild preeclampsia, severe preeclampsia, and the controls (10.77 ng/ml, 13.40 ng/ml, and 8.43 ng/ml, respectively). Also, there was no relationship between serum leptin levels and the gestational ages of the participants. DISCUSSION: Serum leptin levels are not associated with preeclampsia. Leptin measurements are not affected with the gestational age. The role of leptin in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia should be evaluated cautiously.