Abstract Background: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a significant cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early prediction of PIH could facilitate timely intervention and improved outcomes. Among biochemical markers, maternal serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) has been suggested as a potential predictor, especially when measured during the second trimester. Identifying its predictive accuracy in clinical settings could enhance antenatal risk stratification protocols. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of second-trimester maternal serum β-hCG levels in predicting the subsequent development of PIH. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Pune, over a 3-year period from October/November 2022 to September/October 2025. A total of 200 antenatal women between 13 and 24 weeks of gestation were recruited. Serum β-hCG levels were measured and expressed in multiples of the median (MoM). Patients were followed up until delivery, and the occurrence of PIH was recorded. Subjects were categorized into two groups: those who developed PIH and those who remained normotensive. Data were analyzed to assess the relationship between β-hCG levels and risk of developing PIH. Results: Among 200 participants, 34 (17%) developed PIH, while 166 (83%) remained normotensive. The mean β-hCG MoM was significantly higher in the PIH group compared to the normotensive group. A serum β-hCG cutoff value of >2.5 MoM demonstrated moderate sensitivity and high specificity in predicting PIH. The incidence of PIH was substantially higher in women with elevated β-hCG levels in the second trimester. Conclusion: Elevated maternal serum β-hCG levels during the second trimester are significantly associated with the development of PIH. β-hCG may serve as a useful biochemical marker for early prediction of PIH, aiding in closer monitoring and timely management of high-risk pregnancies.
Deshpande et al. (Wed,) studied this question.