Abstract
Background: Pregnancy causes progressive changes in maternal carbohydrate metabolism which can induce stress. In subjects with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), there can be alteration in oxidant-antioxidant profile producing oxidative stress. Malondialdehyde (MDA) produces damage by acting as free radicals. Ceruloplasmin and uric acid possess antioxidant properties.

Aims and Objectives: The present study was done (1) to determine the levels of MDA and the antioxidants namely uric acid and ceruloplasmin among GDM and controls and (2) to correlate the level of oxidant and antioxidant in the GDM subjects.

Materials and Methods: A total of 130 pregnant women attending the antenatal outpatient department were recruited for the study after obtaining permission from the Institutional Ethical Committee. 30 had GDM and were designated as cases. The remaining 100 with normal glucose tolerance served as controls. Serum levels of MDA, ceruloplasmin, and uric acid were measured. Statistical analysis was done.

Results: Compared to the controls, the GDM subjects showed a significant increase in the level of MDA (P < 0.001) and significant elevation of uric acid levels (P < 0.001) in the second trimester.

Conclusion: The results suggest that there is increase in the oxidant levels in GDM subjects. The uric acid levels were increased and ceruloplasmin levels slightly decreased in the GDM subjects, suggesting that excessive free radical production evokes a response to combat oxidative stress.

Key words: Gestational Diabetes; Malondialdehyde; Uric Acid; Ceruloplasmin; Oxidative Stress