Background Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) are used as markers of preeclampsia. The aim of this paper was to assess the correlations between the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio values within the <38, 38-85 and >85 brackets and perinatal outcomes in pregnancies that require determination of these markers. Methods A total of 927 pregnant patients between 18 and 41 weeks' gestation suspected of or confirmed with any form of placental insufficiency (preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction [IUGR], gestational hypertension, HELLP syndrome, placental abruption) were included in the study. In each of the patients, the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio was calculated. Patients were divided into three groups according to the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio brackets of <38, 38-85 and >85. Results Significantly worse perinatal outcomes were found in the sFlt-1/PlGF >85 group, primarily with lower cord blood pH, neonatal birth weight and shorter duration of gestation. Statistically significant correlations between the values of these markers and the abovementioned perinatal effects were found. Conclusion An sFlt-1/PlGF ratio value of >85 suggests that either preeclampsia or one of the other placental insufficiency forms may occur, which is associated with lower cord blood pH, newborn weight and earlier delivery. Determining the disordered angiogenesis markers and calculating the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio in pregnancies complicated by placental insufficiency may lead to better diagnosis, therapeutic decisions and better perinatal outcomes.
Keywords: fms-like tyrosine kinase-1(sFlt-1); perinatal outcome; placental growth factor (PlGF); placental insufficiency.