Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs during pregnancy and affects the blood vessels and blood pressure. It usually develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and can cause high blood pressure and damage to organs like the kidneys and liver. This condition can lead to serious health problems for both the mother and the baby if not managed properly. The main issue is that the blood vessels do not develop or function normally, which reduces blood flow to the placenta. This can cause the baby to grow more slowly and may lead to complications during delivery. Symptoms often include swelling, headaches, and changes in vision, but some women may not have obvious signs.

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific multisystem disorder characterized by new-onset hypertension (blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg) and proteinuria or end-organ dysfunction after 20 weeks of gestation. The core pathology involves abnormal placental development leading to impaired trophoblastic invasion and endothelial dysfunction, resulting in systemic vasoconstriction and increased vascular permeability. This causes hypertension, renal impairment, and potential damage to the liver, brain, and coagulation system. The exact etiology is multifactorial, involving immune maladaptation, genetic predisposition, and oxidative stress. Clinically, it is significant due to risks of progression to eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and adverse fetal outcomes such as intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth.