Protein S and protein C in preeclamptic pregnant women

Background and purpose: Deficits of protein C and protein S are associated with an increased incidence of thrombotic disorders. The aim of the present study was to determine the levels of the mentioned natural coagulation inhibitors in women with preeclampsia and in a 6-months followup period after delivery.Materials and methods: This case-control clinical study included 55 pregnant women (cases) with preeclampsia and 50 healthy normotensive pregnant women (controls) in tertiary perinatal centre. Protein C levels were determined photometrically using a chromogen substrate, and protein S levels were determined using the clot method and optic detection.Results: There were no significant differences in protein C and protein S levels between women with preeclampsia and healthy pregnant women; however, six months after delivery protein S levels were significantly lower in women with preeclampsia as compared to healthy peers, whereas protein C levels did not differ significantly.Conclusion: Possible long-term cardiovascular morbidity should be assessed in preeclampsia women.