Diagnostic value of ophthalmic artery Doppler indices for prediction of preeclampsia at 28-32 weeks of gestation

Objective The aim of this study was to examine the diagnostic value of ophthalmic artery Doppler indices in predicting preeclampsia along with other markers in the third trimester of pregnancy. Methods Normotensive pregnancies were included during 28-32 weeks of gestation to undergo uterine and ophthalmic artery Doppler ultrasound. Maternal and fetal characteristics were documented at the visit between the 28 and 32 weeks of gestation, and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) values in the first trimester were collected to be integrated into a multiparametric prediction model. Results Of 795 included participants, 48 cases progressed to preeclampsia. All assessed ophthalmic Doppler parameters including first and second peak systolic velocities (PSVs), second to first peak ratio (PR), and pulsatility index (PI), were statistically different in patients who developed preeclampsia later on. The average PR (sensitivity: 100% [95% CI, 0.81-1.00]; specificity: 90% [95% CI, 0.86-0.93]) and PI between the eyes, PAPP-A multiple of median and uterine artery PI were determined to be the most important predictors of PE, which were subsequently integrated into a multiple regression model (sensitivity: 94% [95% CI, 0.70-1.00]; specificity: 93% [95% CI, 0.89-0.96]). Conclusion This study provided a screening method for individuals at higher risk of progressing to preeclampsia in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Automated summary

This study examined the diagnostic value of ophthalmic artery Doppler indices in predicting preeclampsia in the third trimester of pregnancy. The study found that ophthalmic Doppler parameters were statistically different in patients who developed preeclampsia, and determined the most important predictors of preeclampsia.