The role of C-reactive protein measurement as a diagnostic aid in early pregnancy

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the values of C-reactive protein (CRP) in early pregnancy for detection of any abnormality of the conceptus and especially the condition of extra-uterine pregnancy (EUP).

Study design: In this prospective observational study, we established reference values for CRP in early pregnancy. Next, we tested whether a single, wide-range CRP measurement could serve as a diagnostic tool for abnormal first trimester pregnancy by comparing CRP levels in three different pregnancy statuses: viable intrauterine pregnancy (Group A), EUP (Group B) and delayed abortion (Group C).

Results: CRP levels were significantly higher in normal pregnancy (Group A) compared to abnormal pregnancy (Group B+C and Group B alone). CRP level was influenced only by the pregnancy status (normal, EUP or delayed abortion) and not by age, BMI, hematocrit or gravidity. The multiple logistic regression model (adjusted for age, gravidity, gestational age, hematocrit and BMI) revealed CRP as being a predictor for normal intrauterine pregnancy.

Conclusion: This study examined the association between CRP levels and abnormal first trimester pregnancies. Our results support single CRP measurement as a diagnostic tool in early pregnancy.

Keywords: Abortion; C-reactive protein; Ectopic pregnancy; Pregnancy.