Evaluation of Homocysteine and ADMA Levels in First Trimester of Pregnancy

Abstract

Background: Homocysteine and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) are biomarkers implicated in vascular health and pregnancy complications. Despite their significance, the levels and impact of these biomarkers during the first trimester of pregnancy remain underexplored. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate plasma levels of homocysteine and ADMA in the first trimester of pregnancy and their associations with early pregnancy outcomes. Method: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 264 pregnant women in the first trimester at Kannur Medical College, Kerala. Plasma homocysteine and ADMA levels were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0. Result: The mean homocysteine level was 8.5 ± 2.3 µmol/L, and the mean ADMA level was 0.48 ± 0.12 µmol/L. Elevated levels of both biomarkers were significantly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including hypertension, gestational diabetes, and miscarriage. A positive correlation (r = 0.48, p = 0.001) was observed between homocysteine and ADMA levels. Conclusion: Elevated homocysteine and ADMA levels in the first trimester are associated with a higher risk of pregnancy complications, highlighting their potential as early biomarkers for adverse outcomes.