Detection of circulating trophoblast particles in peripheral maternal blood in preeclampsia complicated pregnancies

Objective. Data on trophoblast particles in peripheral maternal circulation are rare. Applying a new enrichment technique, Oncoquick, we evaluated the number of trophoblast particles in maternal blood in preeclamptic and non-preeclamptic pregnancies. Methods. After isolation of trophoblast particles using Oncoquick, trophoblast particles were detected by immunocytochemistry, applying a monoclonal pan cytokeratin (CK) antibody. Fetal origin of the detected particles was verified by XY- fish analysis in women delivering male infants. Results. Trophoblast particles were identified in 25/52 (48%) of preeclamptic and 1/20 (5%) of non-preeclamptic pregnancies. Conclusion. The number of trophoblast particles in peripheral maternal blood of preeclamptic pregnancies was significantly higher than in non-preeclamptic pregnancies.