The ability of thromboelastography parameters to predict severe pre‐eclampsia when measured during early pregnancy

OBJECTIVE: To examine the predictive value of thromboelastography parameters during early pregnancy as potential markers of severe pre-eclampsia during late pregnancy. METHODS: An observational retrospective case-control study was conducted among pregnant women who attended a single hospital in Shanghai, China, between July 1, 2016, and February 31, 2018. Data were obtained from medical records and a structured questionnaire completed by the participants. Thromboelastography parameters included time r; time k; α angle; maximum amplitude; clot lysis at 60 minutes; and coagulation index. Other risk factors for severe pre-eclampsia were also assessed. RESULTS: The pre-eclampsia and control groups comprised 46 and 138 women, respectively. Women with a coagulation index below zero at 13-20 weeks experienced an increased risk of severe pre-eclampsia (odds ratio [OR] 31.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 11.28-89.24; P<0.001). Other risk factors for severe pre-eclampsia were family history of hypertension (OR 3.79, 95% CI 1.21-11.48; P=0.017) and pre-pregnancy body mass index (OR 2.83, 95% CI 1.14-7.36; P=0.023). CONCLUSION: Coagulation index determined by thromboelastography was an early marker for severe pre-eclampsia.