Serum PAPP-A in normal pregnancy: Relationship to fetal and maternal characteristics

Abstract
Pregnancy associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) was measured in maternal serum by electroimmunoassy in 414 women (with subsequent normal pregnancy outcome) during the 38th week of pregnancy. PAPP-A levels were examined in relation to maternal and fetal characteristics, revealing a statistically significant relationship with maternal weight, placental weight, fetal sex and gravidity. The correlation of PAPP-A levels to fetal sex and gravidity could not be explained by differences in placental or maternal weight. Mean levels of PAPP-A were also not significantly different in relation to fetal sex.