Predefined outcomes
Outcome measures were predefined during the design of the present
systematic review. Data extraction was performed using a modified data
form that was based in Cochrane‘s data collection form for intervention
reviews for RCTs and non-RCTs [15].
Investigated outcomes were predetermined based in our previous
systematic review that examined the role of serum uric acid as a
predictive factor of preeclampsia
[16]. Briefly, the main outcome of
interest was the comparison of serum LDH levels among preeclamptic and
healthy pregnant women in all gestational trimesters.
The prognostic role of uric acid was planned to be evaluated by
comparing its levels among women with mild and severe preeclampsia, as
well as with eclampsia and HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and
low platelet count) syndrome. The diagnostic accuracy of serum uric acid
in terms of predicting adverse perinatal outcomes (rate of cesarean
section, fetal growth restriction, low birth weight, preterm birth, 5’
Apgar score <7, fetal or neonatal death) was also evaluated.