The acute phase response to parturition: a cross-sectional study in Zimbabwe.
Parturition triggers an acute phase response, but its magnitude, duration and predictors are not well described. We determined serum alpha1-antichymotrypsin (ACT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) among 216 women attending postpartum services in south-eastern Zimbabwe. Serum CRP peaked during the first week and serum ACT around 9 days postpartum. Serum ACT, but not serum CRP, was lower among HIV infected women. Multiparity was a negative, and preterm delivery and caesarean section were positive predictors of both serum ACT and CRP. There is a need for a better understanding of the acute phase response to parturition.
Friis
Henrik
H
Department of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 30, 1958 Frederiksberg, Denmark. hfr@life.ku.dk
Gomo
Exnevia
E
Mashange
Wilson
W
Nyazema
Norman
N
Kostel
Pernille
P
Wieringa
Frank
F
Krarup
Henrik
H
D000210:Acute-Phase Reaction / Q000097:blood*; D000328:Adult; D002097:C-Reactive Protein / Q000032:analysis*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D036861:Delivery, Obstetric; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000097:blood; D006801:Humans; D036801:Parturition / Q000097:blood*; D049590:Postpartum Period; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D055815:Young Adult; D015030:Zimbabwe; D000514:alpha 1-Antichymotrypsin / Q000097:blood*
D000514:alpha 1-Antichymotrypsin; D002097:C-Reactive Protein