Thrombosis factors and oxidant/antioxidant markers in obese and hypertensive women during pregnancy.

Objective: To investigate the oxidative profile and thrombotic markers in obese and hypertensive mothers.

Methods: Thirty obese, 28 hypertensive and 34 healthy control mothers were recruited from Tlemcen Hospital, Algeria. Plasma vitamin C, nitric oxide, superoxide anion, erythrocyte glutathione, malondialdehyde, carbonyl proteins and erythrocyte antioxidant enzyme activities and coagulation markers [protein C, protein S, fibrinogen, prothrombin, antithrombin, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), lupus anticoagulants (LACs)] were measured. Changes in plasma urea, creatinine, uric acid, glucose and lipid levels were also determined.

Results: Plasma glucose concentrations were high in obese mothers, and plasma urea, uric acid and creatinine levels were increased in hypertensive compared with healthy mothers. Obese and hypertensive mothers had low vitamin C and glutathione values, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities, and high triglyceride, superoxide anion, malondialdehyde and carbonyl protein levels compared with control mothers. Plasma nitric oxide levels were enhanced in obese mothers but reduced in hypertensive mothers. Fibrinogen and prothrombin levels were significantly enhanced in obese and hypertensive mothers. Protein C, protein S, antithrombin and APTT values were significantly higher in hypertensive mothers. Only hypertensive mothers were positive for LACs.

Conclusion: Obese and hypertensive mothers presented oxidative stress and a pro-thrombotic state. Their oxidative and hemostasis profile should be carefully considered and appropriate management organized.