New Breakthrough: Cork Medtech Innovates Preeclampsia Screening Test

Preeclampsia, a dangerous condition that is challenging to predict, may soon become easier to detect thanks to a groundbreaking screening test developed by medtech company Metabolomic Diagnostics.

A recent study conducted in collaboration with King’s College Hospital London revealed a remarkable 15% increase in preterm preeclampsia detection rates using Metabolomic Diagnostics' innovative diagnostic method (source).

This new diagnostic method involves screening for specific metabolites associated with preterm preeclampsia, in addition to the standard biomarkers for the condition. The research team observed a significant improvement in detection rates as a result of this combined approach.

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that impacts approximately 5 to 7% of pregnancies worldwide, causing more than 70,000 maternal deaths and 500,000 fetal deaths annually. The exact cause of preeclampsia remains unknown, but it is believed to be linked to placenta development. The placenta, responsible for connecting the mother's blood supply to the fetus, plays a crucial role in providing oxygen and nutrients.

When the placenta doesn't receive adequate blood flow, serious complications arise for both the mother and the fetus.

Improved Risk Screening for Personalized Care

Notably, preeclampsia affects women of different races differently, with black women being at higher risk. Other risk factors include first-time pregnancy, history of hypertension or chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or obesity indicated by a high body mass index.

The researchers at Metabolomic Diagnostics took these factors into account during their study to demonstrate the potential for personalized risk screening. According to their statement, "patients with different body mass indexes and from different races express different biomarker levels, allowing for improvement of the detection rates."

Dedicated to Improving Pregnancy Outcomes for All Families

Metabolomic Diagnostics, headquartered in Little Island, County Cork, specializes in developing innovative biomarker-based diagnostic solutions for complex diseases. Dr. Robin Tuytten, the CEO of the company, expressed their commitment to improving health equity by providing access to screening for all pregnant patients.

"Our goal is to improve health equity by facilitating patient access to screening, acknowledging that every pregnant patient is different and achieving better pregnancy outcomes for all families," said Dr. Tuytten.

Simple Blood Test for Enhanced Prenatal Medical Assessments

Building on their groundbreaking findings, the team at Metabolomic Diagnostics is working towards the development of a simple blood test that can seamlessly integrate into routine prenatal medical assessments. This advancement is set to revolutionize the identification and management of preeclampsia, ultimately saving lives and improving pregnancy outcomes.