Ultrasound assessment of the intima and media layers on the carotid arteries in preeclamptic women

Purpose: To measure the thickness of intima and media layers of carotid arteries of pregnant women presenting preeclampsia (PE) compared to normal pregnancies (Ctrls) and perimenopausal women (Peri) using standard ultrasound equipment present in many Ob & Gyn departments. Patients and methods: In this prospective observational study, 18 PE, 18 Ctrls and 22 Peri were included. With a high-resolution linear ultrasound probe (used for breast imaging) the intima and media layers of the common carotid arteries in women attending our department of obstetrics or our menopausal centre for routine care were measured. Triplicate measurements for each layer from both sides were obtained. Patient age, gestational age, pregnancy outcome and history of arterial hypertension were also recorded. Results: The mean values of the total carotid diameter (intima plus media) are 0,59mm, 0,58mm and 0,67mm for PE, Ctrls and Peri, respectively. Intima and media measurements, both individually and in total, are not significantly different between PE and Ctrls. Peri media and intima are significantly thicker than Ctrl and PE media and intima, both individually and in total. Conclusion: The thickness of the intima and media layers of the carotid artery can be easily and reliably measured using equipment present in many Ob&Gyn units. Patient age seems to be the most important determinant of vessel wall thickness, both for intima and media. Literatur: Blaauw J, van Pampus MG, Van Doormaal JJ et al. Increased intima-media thickness after early-onset preeclampsia. Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Jun;107(6):1345-51. carotids - hormone replacement therapy - intima/media - preeclampsia - ultrasound