[From promising biomarker to useful test: a long and winding road].

Abstract

The past few years have seen a tremendous acceleration in research on biomarkers. The vast majority of published research papers conclude with positive conclusions: gains are to be expected, improved outcomes for the patient and a more efficient and cheaper care process. Unfortunately, these promises are not always fulfilled. In this commentary, we discuss a recently proposed biomarker for impending pre-eclampsia: placental growth factor. Mean values of that marker have been shown to differ between women who developed pre-eclampsia and those who did not. Yet a randomized trial, published this year, showed that deploying that marker in clinical management did not improve maternal or neonatal outcomes. We discuss possible explanations and look forward to further research.

• Authors: Patrick M Bossuyt
• Journal: Nederlands tijdschrift voor geneeskunde (Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd) Vol. 166 (01 06 2022) ISSN: 1876-8784 [Electronic] Netherlands
• Vernacular Title: Van beloftevolle biomarker naar nuttige test.
• PMID: 35138759 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Comment)

Chemical References

• Biomarkers
• Placenta Growth Factor

Topics

• Biomarkers
• Female
• Humans
• Infant, Newborn
• Placenta Growth Factor
• Pre-Eclampsia (diagnosis)
• Pregnancy