PlGF Test (Placental Growth Factor)

PlGF Test: quick answers

PlGF Test full form

Placental Growth Factor

PlGF Test price

₹2,069, home sample collection

Normal range (adults)

Triage PlGF, 20 weeks to 36 weeks 6 days: 100 pg/mL or more: pre-eclampsia is unlikely in the next 14 days; Triage PlGF: 12 to 99 pg/mL: low, raises concern that the placenta is under strain more

Done for

Suspected pre-eclampsia in a woman with raised blood pressure; Symptoms such as severe headache, visual changes or swelling; Helping decide how often to monitor a pregnancy

Fasting

Not required

Report

3–5 days

What is the PlGF Test?

The PlGF test measures placental growth factor, a protein made by the placenta, in a pregnant woman's blood. A low level between 20 weeks and 36 weeks 6 days of pregnancy helps specialists judge whether pre-eclampsia, or a related placental problem, is likely when blood pressure is high or symptoms appear.

PlGF Test normal range

These cut-offs belong to one specific PlGF-based test used under NICE guidance and apply only between 20 weeks and 36 weeks 6 days of pregnancy. Other assays and the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio use different cut-offs. PlGF is requested and interpreted by an obstetrician or maternal-fetal medicine specialist. The range on your own report governs.

Ranges differ between laboratories and methods. The reference range printed on your own report is the one to read your result against.

What your PlGF Test result means

Low PlGF

Suggests the placenta is not working well and that pre-eclampsia is more likely. The specialist may plan closer monitoring; it is not a diagnosis by itself.

Normal PlGF

Makes pre-eclampsia less likely in the short term, but blood pressure, urine tests and symptoms are still followed, and the test can be repeated if the picture changes.

sFlt-1/PlGF ratio

NICE DG49 describes a ratio of 38 or less as helping rule out pre-eclampsia over the following week, and a higher ratio as needing closer assessment.

One result is not a diagnosis. A doctor reads it with your symptoms, history, medicines and other tests.

Why is the PlGF Test done?

• Suspected pre-eclampsia in a woman with raised blood pressure
• Symptoms such as severe headache, visual changes or swelling
• Helping decide how often to monitor a pregnancy
• A baby that is growing less than expected
• Use alongside the sFlt-1 test as a ratio, where the hospital uses it

What does the PlGF Test (Placental Growth Factor) measure?

1 parameter. Expand a group to see the measurements, units and available method details.

The reference interval printed on your actual laboratory report governs interpretation. Intervals can vary by laboratory, method, age, sex and pregnancy. Methods can also vary by processing laboratory.

PlGF Test: sample & preparation

Sample: Blood. Fasting: Not required.

• You do not need to fast for this test. It is commonly used to help assess pre-eclampsia risk; tell the laboratory your exact gestational age.

Frequently asked questions