Etiology of EPH-gestosis from the viewpoint of dynamics of vasoactive prostanoid, lipid peroxides and vitamin E.

To determine the significance of EPH-gestosis, the author measured the blood levels of lipid peroxides, vitamin E, thromboxane B2, and 6-Keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha. The basis for this was presence of lipid metabolism abnormalities in this disease. 1. The serum lipid peroxides level. In severe cases of EPH-gestosis, a significant increase was observed compared with normal pregnant women in the 10th month of gestation. 2. The serum V-E level. In severe cases of EPH-gestosis, there was a tendency to decrease compared with the values for the late stage of pregnancy. 3. The serum TXB2 level. In severe cases of EPH-gestosis, a significant increase was observed compared with normal pregnant women in the 10th month of gestation. 4. The serum 6-Keto-PGF1 alpha level. In severe cases of EPH-gestosis, a significant decrease was observed compared with normal pregnant women in the 10th month of gestation. 5. Relationship to the gestosis index (G-I). a. Elevation of the lipid peroxide level was noted in cases with a G.I. of 5 or higher. b. The V-E level tended to drop in cases with a G.I. of 4 or higher. c. There was a significant difference between the TXB2 levels at G.I.-3 and G.I.-4. d. The level of 6-Keto-PGF1 alpha dropped as the G.I. increased in cases with a G.I. of 4 or higher.