Study of serum levels of Homocysteine, Vitamin B12 and Folic acid in women with a previous history of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Background: Gestational Diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common condition seen during the 24th to 28th week of pregnancy which resolves spontaneously with the birth of the baby. In the present study we have studied the serum levels of homocysteine (Hcy) vitamin B12 and folic acid in women with the history of GDM and tried to highlight the correlation especially of homocysteine with GDM. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted on 100 women with GDM patients attending the Gynaecology Obstetrics OPD, J.L.N. Medical College Associated groups of Hospital, Ajmer. The results of patients were compared with 100 women without GDM subjects. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical estimations were performed, after taking approval from ethical committee. Results: The mean serum levels of homocysteine, vitamin B12, folic acid, fasting glucose and fasting insulin were elevated in women with GDM as compared to women without GDM (control) subjects. Serum Hcy, fasting glucose and fasting insulin were observed statistically significant in subjects studied when compared with controls. Conclusion: In women with a previous history of GDM a statistically significant rise in the serum levels of homocysteine, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA IR, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol and VLDL cholesterol was seen. Further deeper studies into the matter need to be carried out to bring out the importance of using homocysteine level as a marker of impending diabetes in women who have had an earlier pregnancy with GDM.