Pre-eclampsia Risk Assessment (sFlt-1/PlGF Ratio)

The Pre-eclampsia Risk Assessment (sFlt-1/PlGF Ratio) is a blood test that measures the ratio of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) to placental growth factor (PlGF), two proteins that play a key role in placental development and blood vessel formation during pregnancy. A healthy balance between these proteins is essential for normal placental function. An elevated sFlt-1/PlGF ratio is a marker of placental dysfunction and is strongly associated with preeclampsia and other placenta-related complications. This test is primarily used to support the evaluation of pregnant women with suspected preeclampsia after 20 weeks of gestation, particularly those presenting with high blood pressure or other clinical signs and symptoms. 

The sFlt-1/PlGF ratio helps healthcare providers:

• Assess the short-term risk of developing preeclampsia.
• Differentiate preeclampsia from other causes of hypertension during pregnancy.
• Guide decisions regarding monitoring, hospitalization, and treatment.
• Evaluate the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including fetal growth restriction (FGR), placental insufficiency, and preterm birth.

The Pre-eclampsia Risk Assessment (sFlt-1/PlGF Ratio) may also be used during 24–28 weeks of gestation as part of the clinical evaluation of pregnancies with suspected fetal edema (hydrops fetalis), when interpreted in conjunction with ultrasound findings and other diagnostic investigations. As the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio is an adjunctive test, its results should always be interpreted alongside blood pressure measurements, clinical assessment, ultrasound findings, and other laboratory investigations. It should not be used as the sole basis for diagnosing or excluding preeclampsia.

Getting tested with the Pre-eclampsia Risk Assessment (sFlt-1/PlGF Ratio) enables early identification of pregnancies at increased risk of placental complications, allowing timely monitoring, appropriate clinical intervention, and individualized pregnancy care to improve outcomes for both the mother and baby.

Note:

1. Please ensure that your latest ultrasound report includes Blood Pressure (BP) measurements and the Umbilical Artery Pulsatility Index (UA PI), as these parameters are important for accurate clinical interpretation.

2. High-dose biotin (vitamin B7) supplements may interfere with test results. If you are taking high-dose biotin, avoid it for at least 24 hours before sample collection, or follow your healthcare provider's advice.