Serum changes of Ferroxidases and iron-binding capacity in pregnancy.

Serum changes of Ferroxidase I and II well as the total iron binding capacity (TIBC) and unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) were measured throughout their gestation in 32 normal pregnant women. Significantly higher concentrations for all the above mentioned parameters were found as pregnancy advanced. Moreover, a significant and positive correlation between the weeks of gestation and a) serum Ferroxidase I (r:0.568 p < 0.001), d) serum Ferroxidase II (r:0.619 p < 0.001), c) serum TIBC (r:0.549 p < 0.01), and d) serum UIBC (r:0.424 p < 0.05) was found. The parallel serum changes of both ferroxidase with those of TIBC and UIBC are also shown in this study. The correlation of Ferroxidase I with TIBC (r:0.734 p < 0.001) and UIBC (r:0.536 p < 0.01) as that of Ferroxidase II with TIBC(r:0.634 p < 0.001) and UIBC (r:0.513 p < 0.01) was significant and positive. In conclusion, serum Ferroxidase I and II are progressively increased with serum TIBC and UIBC as pregnancy advances.