Perspective Study of Elevated First Trimester C-reactive Protein as Predictor of Gestational Diabetes in South Karnataka Population: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: The C-reactive protein (CRP) derived from the liver is sensitive and systemic biomarker of inflammation and has
been associated with increased risk of developing diabetes mellitus in pregnancy.
Materials and Methods: Ninety-two pregnant women having gestational diabetes of the first trimester and same number of
normal pregnant women of controlled group were studied. Blood sugar (fasting and postprandial) and CRP, body mass index
(BMI), age, and period of gestation/weeks of gestation were compared in both groups.
Results: The BMI of gestational diabetes group was 26.05 (SD ± 3.40) and 22.80 (SD ± 2.14), t-test was 7.75, and P-value
was highly significant. Laboratory findings, blood glucose (fasting and post-meal), and CRP (mg/l) were higher in gestation
diabetes and P-values were highly significant (P < 0.00). CRP values were more or less constant in blood glucose (fasting and
post-meal) hence P-value was insignificant (P > 0.98).
Conclusion: CRP values were higher in gestational diabetes due to inflammation and oxidative stress. These finding are
important for obstetrics and gynecologist to treat such patient efficiently to prevent morbidity and mortality of fetus and
mother too.