Factor VIII related antigen/coagulant activity ratio as a predictor of fetal growth retardation: a comparison with hormone and uric acid measurements

Abstract

Factor VIII related antigen (VIIIRAg), Factor VIII coagulant activity (VIIIC), plasma uric acid, total plasma oestriol, plasma human placental lactogen (hPL) and urine oestrogen/creatinine ratio were measured in a group of 21 patients clinically suspected of fetal growth retardation and compared with normal pregnancy. Of the hormone assays, hPL was better than either oestrial or oestrogen/creatinine ratio at distinguishing between normal and growth retarded pregnancies. Uric acid levels tended to be higher than normal in patients with fetal growth retardation, but the best means of distinguishing normal from growth retarded pregnancies proved to be the VIIIRAg/VIIIC ratio. This ratio was significantly elevated in fetal growth retardation compared with normal pregnancy, and the increase was evident as early as 30 weeks gestation. Using the VIIIRAg/VIIIC ratio test, the outcome of 17 of the 21 suspect pregnancies could be correctly predicted.