Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy-related disorder characterized by new-onset hypertension (high blood pressure) and proteinuria (protein in the urine) typically occurring after 20 weeks of gestation. It is a leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The condition primarily affects the cardiovascular system, kidneys, liver, and central nervous system of the mother, and can impair placental function, leading to fetal growth restriction and preterm birth. Preeclampsia is thought to originate from abnormal placental development and endothelial dysfunction, resulting in widespread vascular inflammation and organ damage. Key clinical features include elevated blood pressure (≥140/90 mmHg), proteinuria, headaches, visual disturbances, upper abdominal pain (particularly right upper quadrant or epigastric pain), edema, and in severe cases, seizures (eclampsia) or HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count). Severe preeclampsia (ICD-10: O14.1) can progress rapidly and may lead to life-threatening complications such as placental abruption, stroke, liver rupture, renal failure, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The condition can also manifest as early-onset preeclampsia (before 34 weeks) or late-onset preeclampsia (at or after 34 weeks), with early-onset forms generally carrying a worse prognosis. The definitive treatment for preeclampsia is delivery of the baby and placenta. Management before delivery focuses on controlling blood pressure with antihypertensive medications (such as labetalol, nifedipine, or hydralazine), preventing seizures with magnesium sulfate, and monitoring maternal and fetal well-being. Low-dose aspirin is recommended as a preventive measure for women at high risk. The timing of delivery depends on the severity of the condition and gestational age, balancing maternal safety against fetal maturity. Preeclampsia typically resolves after delivery, though some women may experience postpartum preeclampsia. Women with a history of preeclampsia have an increased long-term risk of cardiovascular disease.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Common questions about Preeclampsia