New Blood Test for Early Prediction of Preeclampsia Launched in the U.S.
Location: United States
Date: October 2023
Organization: Labcorp
Labcorp has introduced a groundbreaking blood test in the United States that can be administered in the first trimester of pregnancy (between 11 and 14 weeks gestation) to assess the risk of developing preeclampsia before 34 weeks. Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and potential organ damage, affecting about 1 in 25 pregnancies in the U.S.
Despite its early predictive capability, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has raised concerns over the test’s practical usefulness and the lack of data on effective interventions based on early predictions from the blood test.
The risk assessment involves identifying four biomarkers: placental growth factor (PlGF), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), mean arterial pressure, and uterine artery pulsatility index (UtAPI). Labcorp claims the test provides up to 90% sensitivity and specificity, promising more precise risk evaluations compared to traditional methods.
This test offers a tool for potential early intervention but has sparked debate among medical professionals about its application and efficacy in routine prenatal care. Critics worry about the implications of false positives and the practicality of integrating the new screening in standard medical practices without additional training or specialized equipment.
Labcorp is working on securing health insurance coverage for the test, which is priced at approximately $240. While this development may potentially improve maternal outcomes, especially for high-risk groups, broader accessibility and awareness remain pivotal considerations for its success.