Disturbed release of cholecystokinin in pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum

AimsWe aimed to investigate cholecystokinin (CCK) release in pregnant women with and without hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). Material and MethodsIn this case-control study including 40 pregnant women with HG and 40 women with healthy uncomplicated pregnancies, serum CCK levels in addition to hematological, biochemical and hormonal parameters were investigated. ResultsSerum CCK values were found to be significantly lower in pregnant women with HG (P<0.001). Additionally, while serum blood urea nitrogen and free thyroxine levels were significantly higher, sodium, potassium, and thyroid stimulating hormone levels were significantly lower in women with HG than in control women. No correlation was detected between CCK and other parameters like ketonuria and thyroid function tests. ConclusionsCCK release has been found to be halved in pregnant women with HG, which supports the hypothesis that gastrointestinal motility is increased in pregnant women with HG. A causal effect remains to be confirmed.