A32-43 Periconception Eosinophil Count Is Independently Associated With Asthma Exacerbations During Pregnancy

Rationale

Asthma exacerbations during pregnancy are associated with increased maternal morbidity and may contribute to adverse perinatal outcomes. Eosinophilic inflammation is a recognized marker of asthma severity; however, the relationship between eosinophil burden near conception and subsequent exacerbation frequency during pregnancy remains poorly defined.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of pregnant patients with physician-diagnosed asthma receiving pregnancy-related care at a single academic medical center. Associations between periconception eosinophil count and gestational asthma exacerbation frequency were evaluated using multivariable linear regression modeling via SPSS software.

Results

Among 31 pregnant patients with asthma, higher absolute eosinophil count was independently associated with increased gestational asthma exacerbation frequency. Each 100 cells/µL increase in eosinophil count was associated with 0.20 additional exacerbations during pregnancy (adjusted β 0.20; 95% CI 0.12-0.28; p < 0.001) after controlling for clinical covariates, including age, BMI, active smoking status, maintenance controller therapy, and history of asthma exacerbation prior to conception.

Conclusion

Elevated eosinophil counts near conception are strongly and independently associated with increased asthma exacerbation burden during pregnancy. Periconception eosinophil assessment may aid in identifying pregnant patients at higher risk for exacerbations and inform closer monitoring and preventive strategies during pregnancy.

This abstract is funded by: None