Maternal rubella immunity status and pre-eclampsia

ProblemTo determine if maternal immune maladaptation associated with pre-eclampsia is reflected in the rubella immunity status. Method of studyIncidence of pre-eclampsia was compared between rubella non-immune and immune gravidae carrying a singleton pregnancy beyond 24weeks, taking into account maternal characteristics and reported risk factors for pre-eclampsia. ResultsThe 9870 (10.4%) rubella non-immune gravidae among the 95024 in the cohort exhibited no difference in incidence of underlying medical disorders, but they were slightly but significantly older, shorter, heavier, and had more pre-eclampsia (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.05-1.47) despite having fewer nulliparas. Regression analysis confirmed an overall association between rubella non-immunity with pre-eclampsia (aOR 1.27, 95% CI 1.06-1.54), which was related to multiparas (aOR 1.42, 95% CI 1.05-1.91) and carrying a male fetus (aOR 1.37, 95% CI 1.06-1.78). ConclusionThe association between rubella non-immunity and pre-eclampsia reflects immune maladaptation in multiparas and toward a male fetus.