To evaluate podocyturia and other renal parameters as functional markers in pregnant women.
50 pregnant women with kidney grafts had their urine samples evaluated by indirect immunofluorescence for detection of podocyturia, as well as for dosages of albuminuria and retinol binding protein (urRBP).
The mean age of the women was 28 years; 17 did not exhibit urinary podocytes and 22 had podocyturia in the 3rd trimester. Serum creatinine levels in the 3rd trimester and post childbirth were both increased compared to the 1st and 2nd trimesters (p < 0.001). Proteinuria levels were higher when compared to other moments (p < 0.001); 25 women had microalbuminuria and 30 macroalbuminuria; 35 had elevated urRBP. 35 pregnant women developed pre-eclampsia and high rate of pre-term delivery (50%).
Levels of urinary podocyte, blood pressure and proteinuria were associated with worsening of kidney function during pregnancy. The proteinuria level in the 3rd trimester was higher when compared to the 1st and 2nd trimesters. There was a significantly greater excretion (P < 0,001) of ur RBP in the 3rd trimester. We observed that urinary podocyte excretion occurs in pregnant women with kidney transplant almost synchronously with higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure and higher mean levels of proteinuria. The detection of podocyturia in these women could be useful for early diagnosis and follow-up of glomerular injury, and eventually of preeclampsia. It may also be associated to its severity or activity, although additional studies are necessary to confirm these aspects.
GRANT FAPESP 20140213-7.