Vitamin E and C in preeclampsia

Vascular endothelial damage has been implicated in the pathophysiology of p reeclampsia. Lipid peroxidation may be involved in the process and essentia l nutrients that can scavenge free radicals, such as vitamin E and C, opera te in concert. Antioxidant vitamins E and C were estimated in 30 preeclampt ic and 30 normotensive pregnant women. Significantly lowered levels of vita mins E and C were observed in preeclamptic women as compared to controls (P <0.001 and P<0.05 respectively). In patients with preeclampsia antioxidant nutrients may be utilized to a greater extent to counteract free radical-me diated cell disturbances, resulting in a reduction in serum antioxidant lev els. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.