Labcorp has introduced a new first trimester preeclampsia screening test, making it the only U.S. laboratory to offer preeclampsia risk detection throughout all pregnancy trimesters. This test, conducted between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation, assesses the risk of developing preeclampsia before 34 weeks. It is significant for all pregnant individuals, including those with low to average risk and first-time pregnancies.
Preeclampsia, a high blood pressure disorder during pregnancy or postpartum, is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality globally. In the U.S., it affects one in 25 pregnancies, with non-Hispanic Black women experiencing it at a 60% higher rate than white women.
Labcorp’s test uses four key early pregnancy biomarkers to provide a comprehensive risk assessment with up to 90% sensitivity, nearly double the sensitivity of traditional methods. It offers earlier risk identification than typical symptoms, such as hypertension or protein in urine, which usually appear around 20 weeks of gestation.
The blood-based test measures two biochemical markers, placental growth factor (PlGF) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), and two biophysical markers, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and uterine artery pulsatility index (UtAPI). Low levels of PlGF and PAPP-A indicate poor placental development, while high MAP and UtAPI levels suggest high blood pressure and elevated resistance to blood flow in the uterine artery.
Labcorp is committed to advancing maternal and fetal health through innovative diagnostics. Dr. Brian Caveney, Labcorp’s Chief Medical and Scientific Officer, emphasized the test’s significance: “By giving healthcare providers another tool to assess preeclampsia risk in their pregnant patients with objective biomarkers, we’re helping to advance prenatal care and improve outcomes for mothers and their babies.”
This test is based on data from two major studies. The SPREE study, involving 16,700 women, showed that combining MAP, UtAPI, PlGF, and PAPP-A significantly improved screening performance. The ASPRE trial, with over 25,000 pregnant women, validated these biomarkers for screening preterm preeclampsia.
Labcorp’s introduction of this test aligns with its broader commitment to women’s health. The company supports millions of women through its digital health platform, Ovia Health by Labcorp, which includes tools and content for preeclampsia prevention and management.
