A Comparative Analysis of the Immunoglobulin G and M Antibodies Seroprevalence Against Helicobacter pylori, Toxoplasma gondii, and Cytomegalovirus in Women With Preeclampsia

Abstract

Problem

Preeclampsia was recognized as a serious medical condition affecting both mother and fetus. Recent investigations revealed infectious agents such as H. pylori, CMV, and T. gondii could seriously affect the progression of preeclampsia but these findings are contradictory. The aim of the study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of IgG and IgM antibodies against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), and Cytomegalovirus (CMV) between pregnant women with preeclampsia and healthy pregnant women.

Method of Study

This case-control study was conducted on 90 pregnant women with preeclampsia (case group) and 90 matched healthy pregnant women (control group), who were matched by their age and gestational age from July to December 2024 in Hamadan. A checklist was employed to assess the demographic and laboratory parameters of case and control groups, especially the seroprevalence of IgG and IgM antibodies against H. pylori, T. gondii, and CMV. Statistical analysis was performed utilizing a logistic regression model with the SPSS 26 software program.

Results

There was a significant difference in the serum levels of IgM against H. pylori and IgG against CMV in patients compared to control groups, whereas the seroprevalence of other antibodies was not significantly changed. There was a significant association between women in case and control groups in terms of laboratory parameters such as HCT, BUN, ALT, BMI, NLR, and proteinuria.

Conclusions

H. pylori and CMV could be regarded as the associated factors for the progression of preeclampsia. Novel therapeutic approaches could reduce the prevalence of preeclampsia by targeting inflammatory pathways.