Biochemistry in the diagnosis and management of abnormal early pregnancy.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the current state of knowledge regarding the biochemical parameters of early pregnancy failure.


RESULTS
Earlier studies have concentrated on the role of human chorionic gonadotropin and progesterone in early pregnancy failure and recent studies have also explored newer markers such as the inhibins and insulin growth factor binding proteins. Multiparameter models have now been created for the prediction of successful expectant management of early pregnancy failure.


CONCLUSIONS
Examining the role of newer biochemical markers in the early pregnancy failure has led to an improved understanding of the underlying mechanisms and has clinical benefit in the selection of appropriate management for patients.
Chetty
Maya
M
Sunderland Reproductive Endocrine Research Group, City Hospital Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, Sunderland, United Kingdom. maya.chetty@chs.northy.nhs.uk
Elson
Janine
J
D000022:Abortion, Spontaneous / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis*; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood; D018997:Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human / Q000097:blood / Q000502:physiology*; D003661:Decision Support Techniques; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007265:Inhibins / Q000502:physiology*; D018970:Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 1 / Q000097:blood / Q000502:physiology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D011261:Pregnancy Trimester, First / Q000097:blood; D011374:Progesterone / Q000097:blood / Q000502:physiology*
D015415:Biomarkers; D018997:Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human; D018970:Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 1; D011374:Progesterone; D007265:Inhibins