Labcorp, a global leader in laboratory services, has introduced a groundbreaking first-trimester screening test to assess the risk of preeclampsia during pregnancy. This innovative test, performed between 11 and 14 weeks gestation, aims to predict the development of preeclampsia before 34 weeks of pregnancy.

Preeclampsia is a serious high blood pressure disorder that can occur during pregnancy or postpartum, posing significant risks to maternal health. In the United States, approximately one in 25 pregnancies is affected by preeclampsia, with non-Hispanic Black women facing a 60% higher risk compared to white women.

Labcorp’s new screening test utilizes four key early pregnancy biomarkers to provide a comprehensive risk assessment with up to 90% sensitivity. This test offers a significant advancement in predicting preeclampsia compared to traditional methods, such as assessing maternal history or biophysical factors alone.

The test measures biochemical markers, including placental growth factor (PlGF) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), as well as biophysical markers like mean arterial pressure (MAP) and uterine artery pulsatility index (UtAPI). Low levels of PlGF and PAPP-A suggest poor placental development, while elevated MAP and UtAPI levels indicate high blood pressure and increased resistance to blood flow in the uterine artery.

Labcorp’s first-trimester screening test complements its existing FDA-cleared blood test for severe preeclampsia risk assessment during the second and third trimesters. By offering screening tests across all pregnancy trimesters, Labcorp aims to enhance maternal and fetal health outcomes through early risk identification and management.

Eleni Tsigas, Chief Executive Officer of the Preeclampsia Foundation, expressed support for Labcorp’s new test, emphasizing the importance of predictive tools for patients at low to average risk or those experiencing their first pregnancy. The availability of such tests can help healthcare providers better anticipate the progression to preeclampsia and provide timely interventions.

With this latest advancement, Labcorp reinforces its commitment to advancing maternal and fetal health through innovative diagnostic solutions. The introduction of the first-trimester screening test for preeclampsia underscores Labcorp’s dedication to providing comprehensive and cutting-edge laboratory services for pregnant individuals across the United States.