Interrelation between serum levels of beta-subunit human chorionic gonadotropin, human placental lactogen and free estriol during the third trimester of pregnancy
Tachibana, Y.
Nihon Sanka Fujinka Gakkai Zasshi 35(10): 1727-1731
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-9165 PMID: 6195274 Document Number: 205675
In order to evaluate changes in serum levels of beta-hCG during the third trimester of pregnant women, it was measured together with serum levels of hPL and free E3 by radioimmunoassay. We also investigated the correlation among these hormone levels and birth weights as well as placental weights. 155 blood samples were drawn once a week from the cubital vein of 27 normal pregnant women from 25 to 35 days menstrual cycles. Serum levels of beta-hCG increased as pregnancy proceed and reached their peak, 9.2 IU/ml, in the 37th week of pregnancy. Serum hPL levels were increased, reaching their peak, 7.3 micrograms/ml, in the 38th week of pregnancy. Serum free E3 levels were also elevated as pregnancy developed and reached their peak, 23.4 micrograms/ml, in the 41st week of pregnancy 41 week. In these serum hormone levels, significant (p less than 0.001) positive correlation were found in each pairing of these three hormones. The serum level of each of these three hormones showed a positive relationship with placental weight. Only the serum free E3 level showed a positive relationship to birth weight. These data suggest that beta-hCG have significant relationship with hPL and free E3. These three hormones have influenced birth weight and placental weight.