Plasma 17-hydroxyprogesterone/cortisol ratio is not a predictor of systemic hypotension in extremely premature infants

• Published in: Open journal of pediatrics Vol. 3; no. 2; pp. 78 - 84
• Main Authors: Lacoste, Aurélie, Corcuff, Jean-Benoît, Benard, Antoine, Leproust, Sandy, Nacka, Fabienne, Brissaud, Olivier, Barat, Pascal
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: Life Sciences
• ISSN: 2160-8741; 2160-8776; 2160-8776
• DOI: 10.4236/ojped.2013.32015

Background/aims: To determine whether the 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP)/cortisol ratio as a marker of immature11-beta hydroxylase activity can predict severe systemic hypotension in preterm neonates. Methods: Serum cortisol and 17-OHP concentrations were measured in capillary blood deposited on blotter paper on day 3 post-natal age (Day 3) in infants less than 32 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA). The predictive value of 17-OHP/cortisol ratio for a first episode of systemic hypotension occurring after Day 3 (FESH) was evaluated. Results: Of 105 infants included, 14 patients (13%) presented a FESH. Neither the 17-OHP/cortisol ratio, nor the 17-OHP or cortisol concentrations were associated with the occurrence of a FESH when adjusted for potential confounding factors. 17-OHP and cortisol were inversely associated to PMA (r = ﹣0.36 and ﹣0.40, respectively). Cortisol, but not 17-OHP, was associated with the type of hospitalization unit, the respiratory support and the presence of a patent ductus arteriosus. The 17-OHP/cortisol ratio was associated with the type of hospitalization unit only. Conclusions: The 17-OHP/ cortisol ratio at Day 3 did not predict the occurrence of a first episode of systemic hypotension after Day3 inpreterm neonates.