Placental growth factor as diagnostic test for pre-eclampsia (PARROT)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Placental growth factor to Assess and diagnose hypeRtensive pRegnant wOmen: a stepped wedge Trial
IRAS ID
171900
Contact name
Lucy Chappell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN16842031
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 8 months, 30 days
Research summary
Pre-eclampsia affects approximately one in 25 pregnancies and is diagnosed when the mother develops high blood pressure and protein in her urine. The complications are potentially very serious including fits for the mother. It is thought to be caused by the way the placenta implants into the wall of the womb which can mean that the baby’s growth is affected, and in some cases the baby is stillborn.\nAll women have their blood pressure and urine monitored during pregnancy. Once diagnosed, the only cure is to deliver the baby. If it occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy, mothers may need to be admitted to hospital to have blood pressure treatment and monitoring for complications, whilst planning for safe delivery of the baby. Some women become unwell very quickly and need to have their babies delivered; others have long stays in hospital for monitoring.\nIt is not always possible to identify women at high risk of the severe complications of pre-eclampsia needing early delivery. The PARROT trial aims to look at levels of a protein produced by the placenta called Placenta Growth Factor (PlGF). Women with suspected pre-eclampsia would have a simple blood test for this protein. Studies have shown that women with very low PlGF levels are at greater risk of severe pre-eclampsia and stillbirth. Women with normal PlGF levels are at low risk and can return to normal antenatal care.\nPARROT aims to tackle the complex nature of pre-eclampsia. When suspected, it is difficult to predict how severely mother and baby will be affected. By testing for PlGF, care can be concentrated in women with genuine pre-eclampsia. It will help identify those at risk, whilst reducing long hospital stays for those who are not.\nReducing hospital admissions has the potential to improve outcomes for patients and save NHS costs.\n
REC name
London - South East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/2058
Date of REC Opinion
21 Jan 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion