Van beloftevolle biomarker naar nuttige test

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.

Conflict of interest and financial support: none declared.