First-trimester fasting plasma glucose as a predictor of gestational diabetes mellitus and the association with adverse pregnancy outcomes

Objective: To evaluate the usefulness of a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) at the first trimester in predicting gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and the association between FPG and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Methods: The levels of FPG in women with singleton pregnancies were measured at 9-13⁺⁶ weeks. A two hour 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was completed at 24-28 weeks and the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) criteria was used. Adverse pregnancy outcomes were assessed and recorded.

Results: Among 2112 pregnant women enrolled in the study, 224 (10.6%) subjects were diagnosed with GDM. The AUC for FPG in predicting GDM was 0.63 (95% CI 0.61- 0.65) and the optimal cutoff value was 4.5 mmol/L (sensitivity 64.29% and specificity 56.45%). Higher first-trimester FPG increased the prevalence of GDM, large for gestational age (LGA) and assisted vaginal delivery and/or cesarean section (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion: FPG at first trimester could be used to predict GDM and higher first-trimester FPG was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes.