ASSESSMENT OF FREE ANDROGEN INDEX IN SECOND TRIMESTER OF PREGNANCY AS A PREDICTOR OF OCCURRENCE OF PREECLAMPSIA

Abstract

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-induced syndrome, characterized by hypertension and proteinuria, affecting 3% to 5% of pregnancies. Maternal endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and leukocyte activation are partof the pathophysiology and circulating factors originating from the uteroplacental circulation is probably essential in the clinical development of preeclampsia.Hyperandrogenism refers to a state of androgen excess in females, characterized by elevated total or free testosterone levels or increased androgen activity at target tissues. Clinical manifestations include hirsutism, acne, menstrual irregularities, and metabolic disturbances.Free Androgen Index (FAI) is a ratio used to determine abnormal androgen status in humans. The ratio is the total testosterone level divided by the sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) level, and then multiplying by a constant, usually 100.The concentrations of testosterone and SHBG are normally measured in nanomoles per liter. FAI has no unit.AIM OF THE WORK:The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between free androgen index (FAI) in early second trimester between 18th and 24th weeks and occurrence of preeclampsia.