-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
reproductive system
preeclampsia
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition:
The development of albuminuria, hypertension, or edema between the 12th week of pregnancy and the end of the first week postpartum. Now known as "pregnancy-induced hypertension" (PIH)

etiology:
Preeclampsia is seen mainly in women pregnant for the first time and in women who had hypertension or a vascular disease before becoming pregnant. It is seen in 5% of pregnant women.

signs and symptoms

signs and symptoms:
pregnancy along with:
• BP equal to or higher than 140/90;
or
• Edema of the hands or face;
or
• Albuminuria equal to or greater than 1+;
or
• BP raises 30 mm/Hg systolic or 15 mm Hg diastolic from their prepregnant readings, even if 140/90 is not reached.

course and prognosis

Preeclampsia is not dangerous in itself; however, untreated it will develop into eclampsia, a potentially fatal illness. Another of the most serious complications of preeclampsia is abruptio placentae. With proper treatment of preeclampsia the life of the mother and the fetus is usually preserved.

differential diagnosis

• usually diagnostic from symptoms and signs


footnotes