The secretory endometrial protein, placental protein 14, in women with ectopic gestation.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the serum level of the secretory endometrial protein, placental protein 14 (PP14) and progesterone (P) in women with ectopic gestation.

DESIGN

Blood samples were collected prospectively and preoperatively. Reference range was determined from a prospective population of 98 women with uncomplicated pregnancies and normal outcome.

SETTING

The women were admitted to a university hospital.

PATIENTS

Fifty-nine women with laparoscopically verified ectopic pregnancy entered the study.

INTERVENTION

At the time of diagnosis PP14 and P were measured.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

After observing the low serum levels of PP14 and P, a correlation analysis was made and compared with the findings in normally pregnant women.

RESULTS

A significant positive correlation was found between the level of PP14 and P (P less than 0.00002), not found in normal intrauterine pregnancies.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the regulation of the PP14 production involves either a control mechanism from the ovary or is mediated by paracrine secretion.