Soluble fms-like Tyrosine Kinase 1

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Abstract
Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1), a splice variant of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor Flt1 and a potent inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor, has been shown to be elevated in pregnant women with preeclampsia.1 A clinical study showed that increased plasma concentrations of sFlt1 are detectable about five weeks before the onset of the disorder.2 We wondered whether abnormal uterine perfusion in the second trimester is associated with increased sFlt1 levels, since disturbed uterine perfusion can identify high-risk pregnancies that are later complicated by preeclampsia or intrauterine growth retardation. However, the finding of abnormal uterine perfusion on Doppler ultrasonography has limited, predictive value, since these complications only sometimes develop in women with this finding.3 Because the increase in sFlt1 antedates preeclampsia, this marker could be a clinically useful adjunct to Doppler ultrasonography, serving to differentiate between women who later have pregnancy complications and those who do not.