Vol. 7, Special Issue 2 (2025)

The placenta is a crucial organ that supports fetal development by regulating the interchange of nutrients, gases, and waste between the mother and the fetus. Assessing placental function is particularly important in high-risk pregnancies, where complications such as pregnancy complications like preeclampsia and IUGR are more likely to occur. This study presents a comparative evaluation of two important diagnostic methods Placental Alkaline Phosphatase (PLAP) and Doppler Ultrasound to determine their effectiveness in monitoring placental performance and fetal nutrition. PLAP, a glycoprotein enzyme secreted by the syncytiotrophoblast, acts as a biochemical marker indicative of placental metabolic activity and maturity. Its levels are associated with nutrient concentrations (glucose, amino acids, lipids) in fetal cord blood, highlighting its significance in nutritional research. However, limitations such as its static measurement, absence of real-time feedback, and low clinical specificity reduce its applicability in routine diagnostics. On the other hand, Doppler Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows real-time visualization of blood flow in the uteroplacental and fetoplacental circulations. By analyzing parameters, it provides direct insight into the fetus’s oxygen and nutrient supply. It plays a central role in early detection and management of conditions like fetal hypoxia, IUGR, and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Although Doppler Ultrasound is widely regarded as the clinical standard for placental assessment due to its dynamic and precise nature, PLAP remains valuable in experimental studies and as a supportive biochemical indicator. A combined use of both methods may offer a more holistic understanding of placental health, particularly in under-resourced settings or research environments focused on fetal nutrition. This paper underscores the complementary value of PLAP and Doppler techniques and promotes their thoughtful use based on clinical needs and diagnostic goals.