Serotonin, cortisol, and DHEA-S levels in anxious and depressive pregnant women living with HIV

Abstract

Abstract Pregnancy in women living with human immunodeficiency virus (WLWH) represents an important challenge for maternal-fetal health. Various pregnant WLWH present anxiety (Anx) and depression (Dep). Imbalances in serotonin (5-HT), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), and cortisol (CORT) levels can contribute to Anx and Dep manifestations. Currently, there is not enough data about the neuroendocrine and neurochemical changes in pregnant WLWH with affective disorders. The objective of this study was to characterize 5-HT, DHEA-S, and CORT plasma levels in pregnant WLWH presenting Anx/Dep. A total of 42 adult pregnant women were recruited during the third trimester of gestation. These patients were divided into three groups: 1) pregnant WLWH with Anx/Dep (n=16), 2) pregnant without HIV but with Anx/Dep (n=12), and 3) healthy pregnant women without Anx/Dep (n=14). Infected and non-infected pregnant women with Anx/Dep presented a marked reduction in 5-HT and DHEA-S levels compared with the healthy group. The lowest 5-HT levels were observed in WLWH with Anx/Dep. Anx and Dep symptoms were inversely correlated with 5-HT and DHEA-S levels. Interestingly, no significant differences were observed in CORT levels among the three groups. Our results suggest the presence of a disbalance in 5-HT and DHEA-S levels in pregnant WLWHwith affective symptoms.