Angiogenic factors: potential to change clinical practice in pre-eclampsia?

Abstract

Pre-eclampsia is a complex disease with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Its syndromic nature makes diagnosis and management difficult. The field is rapidly evolving with the definition of pre-eclampsia being challenged by some organisations, with proteinuria no longer being essential in the presence of other features. In the last decade, angiogenic factors, in particular soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1), have emerged as important molecules in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia. Here we review the most recent evidence regarding the potential of these factors as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for pre-eclampsia. A review of angiogenic factors, sFlt-1 and PlGF, in the diagnosis, prediction and management of pre-eclampsia.