III.

RESULTS: There was no statistical significant difference between the groups on the basis of age, gestational week, or plasma level of eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, or archidonic acid. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups on the basis of plasma level of C20 (arachidic acid) and C22 (behenic acid). C20 reduced, but the level of C22 behenic acid increased in the hyperemesis gravidarum group.CONCLUSION: Hyperemesis gravidarum did not affect the plasma levels of eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, or archidonic acid, which contribute to placental and fetal neurologic development. We detected that hyperemesis gravidarum affects the plasma levels of C20 (arachidic acid) and C22 (behenic acid). To supply energy needs, plasma levels of C20 may be decreased. C22 behenic acid is a cholesterol-raising saturated fatty acid in humans. The reason for the increase of C22 in the hyperemesis group should be investigated.