A 32-year-old with severe pre-eclampsia at 36 weeks has a sFlt-1/PlGF ratio of 85. According to current biomarker-guided management guidelines, this ratio most accurately predicts which clinical outcome?
- A Development of severe adverse outcomes within 2 weeks if the ratio exceeds 85 ✓
- B Imminent eclamptic convulsion within 48 hours
- C Need for immediate caesarean section
- D Fetal growth restriction necessitating early delivery
Correct answer: A. Development of severe adverse outcomes within 2 weeks if the ratio exceeds 85
Explanation
The sFlt-1/PlGF ratio is a validated biomarker for pre-eclampsia risk stratification. A ratio >85 (in gestational age 34–36+6 weeks) predicts short-term adverse maternal or perinatal outcomes within 2 weeks, guiding admission and delivery decisions (PROGNOSIS study). It does not specifically predict eclamptic convulsions within 48 hours, does not mandate immediate caesarean, and while it correlates with FGR, its primary validated use is predicting adverse outcomes within 2 weeks.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.