atrial-natriuretic-factor and Puerperal-Disorders

Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide and aldosterone and plasma renin activity were measured in patients with peripartum heart failure and in age matched healthy women post partum. Both groups had carried out traditional postpartum practices of salt consumption and body heating. Plasma concentrations (mean (SEM)) of atrial natriuretic peptide were significantly higher in the seven patients with peripartum heart failure (146.9 (24.3) pg/ml) than in the seven controls (4.4 (0.8) pg/ml). Both plasma aldosterone and plasma renin activity were suppressed in the patients with peripartum heart failure. After treatment for the heart failure plasma atrial natriuretic peptide fell considerably and there were associated increases in plasma aldosterone and plasma renin activity. The high plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide may have been a compensatory response to salt and water retention as well as to the heart failure. These high concentrations could also, in part, have suppressed the release of aldosterone and renin in an attempt to correct for volume overload.

Topics: Adult; Aldosterone; Atrial Natriuretic Factor; Female; Heart Failure; Humans; Hyperthermia, Induced; Pregnancy; Puerperal Disorders; Renin; Sodium, Dietary

1. Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), renin activity, aldosterone, sodium, potassium and serum total protein and albumin during and after 14 normal pregnancies were compared with age-matched controls. 2. None developed toxaemia and all delivered healthy babies. 3. During pregnancy, plasma renin activity and aldosterone were significantly (P less than 0.01) higher and potassium, total protein and albumin significantly lowew (P less than 0.01) than in controls, while ANP was not different from the control level. 4. At 6-13 weeks postpartum, a significant (P less than 0.01) suppression of renin and aldosterone was accompanied by significant (P less than 0.01) elevation of atrial natriuretic peptide when compared with controls. 5. The hormonal changes are consistent with 'effective plasma volume' reduction during pregnancy and persistent volume expansion after pregnancy, perhaps due to a renal glomerular lesion sustained late in pregnancy. In contrast, levels of potassium, total protein and albumin are consistent with haemodilution during pregnancy and its correction postpartum. 6. Measurements available in seven women 40-120 weeks postpartum showed normal renin and aldosterone levels in most, but ANP was still elevated. 7. Pregnancy may have a protracted effect on volume regulation.

Topics: Adult; Aldosterone; Atrial Natriuretic Factor; Blood Proteins; Blood Volume; Female; Humans; Postpartum Period; Potassium; Pregnancy; Puerperal Disorders; Renin; Serum Albumin; Sodium