Comparison of carotis intima media thicknesses in gestational weeks 24-26 and 36-38 in pregnant women with gestational diabetes

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study is to investigate the differences between carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) of patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and healthy pregnant women.
METHODS: In this prospective study, 30 patients diagnosed with GDM and 30 healthy pregnant women were included. Serum HDL, LDL, TG, HbA1C and CRP levels, body mass indexes (BMI), and CIMT were measured for all participants included in the study. Measurements were repeated at 36-38 weeks of gestation. The difference between the second and third trimester measurements of both groups was compared.
RESULTS: Second trimester CIMT measurements of GDM and healthy pregnant women were 5.483 ± 0.825 mm and 4.866 ± 0.642 mm, respectively, and the difference between the measurements of the two groups was statistically significant. Third trimester CIMT measurements of GDM and healthy pregnant women were 5.516±0.748 mm and 4.983 ±0.724 mm, respectively, and the difference between the measurements of the two groups was statistically significant (p=0.016). The difference between the second and third trimester CIMT measurements of the patients in the GDM group was not statistically significant (p=0.326). The difference between the second and third trimester CIMT measurements of the patients in the control group was not statistically significant (p=0.09).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: GDM patients are at risk for atherosclerosis. In treated GDM patients, the increase in CIMT can be prevented. These findings may indicate that with early diagnosis and treatment of GDM, our patients can be protected from the atosclerotic consequences of hyperglycemia.