Endothelin‐1,2 levels in umbilical vein serum of intra‐uterine growth retarded fetuses as detected by cordocentesis

Introduction: The objective of this study was to determine whether the circulatory levels of endothelins, potent vasoconstrictor polypeptides produced mainly by endothelial cells, are increased in growth‐retarded fetuses. Study design: Fetal venous serum samples, withdrawn by ultrasound‐guided cordocentesis from 11 growth‐retarded fetuses and 10 normally‐growing fetuses who underwent the procedure because of other unrelated indications, were examined for immunoreactive endothelin‐1,2 by radioimmunoassay. Results: Higher mean endothelin‐1,2 levels were found in the sera of growth‐retarded fetuses than in controls (16.8 ± 4.2 versus 10.9 ± 4.3 fmol/ml, p = 0.008). Within the growth‐retarded group, there were no differences in endothelin‐1,2 levels in the presence of either abnormal umbilical Doppler, asymmetry of growth‐retardation, maternal signs of preeclampsia, or fetal acidosis. Conclusion: High levels of endothelin‐1,2 in the fetoplacental circulation may be pathophysiological important in fetal growth retardation. However, the clinical significance of these elevated levels is yet to be determined. 1994 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved: reproduction in whole or part not permitted