抄録
Background: The association between fetal chromosomal abnormality and increased nuchal translucency (NT) thickness during the first trimester of pregnancy is well-established. Other factors on NT thickness were limited. The aim of this study is to explore the effect of metals on the NT thickness. Methods: Plasma samples of pregnant women in the first trimester of gestation were collected. Subjects were asked to complete a structured questionnaire to collect the demographic and disease history information. Plasma metals were determined by ICP-MS; NT thickness was measured by a gynecologist via an ultrasonic examination. Results: The total number of participants was 168. Results revealed the average NT thickness was 1.37±0.37 mm; plasma As, Hg, Pb, Cu, Zn, Ca, Mg, K, and Na concentrations were 0.95±1.03μg/L, 2.81±1.59μg/L, 0.24±0.47μg/L, 1.22±0.71mg/L, 0.93±0.78mg/L, 99.65±3.92mg/L, 14.13±5.79mg/L, 231.09±314.72mg/L and 3931.39±1505.32mg/L, respectively. Among the nine metals, only As, Cu, Zn and Ca were significantly associated with the NT thickness. After log-transformation of metal concentrations and adjusting gestational weeks, maternal age and other endocrine-related diseases, As and Ca were significantly associated with increased NT thickness (β=0.274μg/L, 0.821 mg/L; p =0.010 and 0.004) and Cu as well as Zn with decreased NT thickness (β=-0.428, -0.188 mg/L; p <0.001and 0.001). Conclusion: Plasma As and Ca levels may be associated with a risk of increased NT thickness. More research is needed to better understand the mechanism of risk.
Keywords: Nuchal translucency thickness, metals, maternal
