Urinary Lipocalin-2 Levels in Pregnant Women with Asymptomatic Fungal Urinary Tract Infection: A Cross-sectional Study from Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria
Abstract
Background: Fungal urinary tract infection (UTI) during pregnancy is an under-appreciated clinical challenge, with most cases presenting asymptomatically and therefore often undetected. Lipocalin-2 (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin; NGAL) is an acute-phase protein and an established urinary biomarker of renal tubular stress and urinary tract infection. Its utility in detecting asymptomatic fungal UTI in pregnancy remains unexplored.
Aim: The purpose of this study was to assess urinary Lipocalin-2 concentrations in pregnant women with asymptomatic fungal UTI (funguria) and to examine associations between Lipocalin-2 levels and key obstetric variables.
Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 72 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Enugu metropolis, Nigeria. Participants were allocated to a funguria group (n = 39) and a non-funguria control group (n = 33). Mid-stream urine specimens were analysed for Lipocalin-2 concentration by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), urinary pH, and specific gravity.
Results: Mean urinary Lipocalin-2 did not differ significantly between the funguria (4.19 ± 0.42 ng/mL) and non-funguria groups (4.38 ± 0.62 ng/mL; p = 0.799). Urinary pH and specific gravity were similarly comparable between groups (p = 0.524 and p = 0.452, respectively). Within the funguria group, gestational age was the only variable significantly associated with Lipocalin-2 level (p < 0.001), with the highest…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 72 participants or records.
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