Link between Preeclampsia and increased markers of brain cell damage & inflammation

Mayo Clinic researchers found that women with a history of severe preeclampsia have more markers linked to brain cell damage and inflammation, compared to women who had uncomplicated pregnancies.

In this study, researchers explored whether extracellular vesicles — small fluid-filled particles — of brain cell membranes circulating in the blood could be found in women years after their affected pregnancies.

Using health record data from the Rochester Epidemiology Project, a cohort of 40 women — 33 with a history of mild preeclampsia and seven with severe preeclampsia — were matched to 40 women who had uncomplicated pregnancies. Compared to the control group, women with a history of severe preeclampsia had a significantly higher concentration of extracellular vesicles that were positive for amyloid beta, which is a toxic brain protein believed to be an essential component of Alzheimer's disease.

The presence of amyloid indicates brain cell damage and inflammation. The researchers found that levels of amyloid circulating in the blood also increased.

"These markers of brain cell damage and inflammation in the blood of women with a history of preeclampsia may lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to improve women's cognitive health over their lifetimes," says Vesna Garovic, M.D., Ph.D., a Mayo Clinic nephrologist and senior author of the study.

The researchers also observed that higher levels of these markers were associated with lower volumes of total gray matter of the brain, which is important for cognitive and intellectual functions.

For women who are pregnant, Dr. Garovic advises being aware of preeclampsia signs and symptoms as following.

Attend prenatal visits so your health care professional can monitor your blood pressure.

Watch for sudden weight gain and swelling. While both are typical during healthy pregnancies, sudden weight gain or swelling, particularly in the face and hands, may be a sign of preeclampsia.

Contact your health care professional immediately or go to an emergency department if you have severe headaches, visual disturbances, severe belly pain or severe shortness of breath. Because some aches and pains are common pregnancy complaints, it may be difficult to recognize a serious problem. If you're concerned about your symptoms, contact your health care professional.

Reference:Vesna Garovic et.al, https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/preeclampsia-linked-to-increased-markers-of-brain-cell-damage-inflammation/(pls take reference from this link after embargo time)