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| The cause of preeclampsia is not known, but may be related to immune factors. The risk of preeclampsia is highest in primagravidas (women in their first pregnancy) and in women who have had minimal exposure to sperm (having used barrier methods of contraception, e.g. condoms). Signs & Symptoms Preeclampsia is characterized by increasing blood pressure, headaches, the presence of albumin (a blood protein) in the urine, and edema (accumulation of water) in the lower extremities. Other factors helpful in making the diagnosis are hemoconcentration, hyperreflexia, hypoalbuminemia, liver function abnormalities, thrombocytopenia, and hyperuricemia. Treatment & Prevention Management of preeclampsia has centered on aggressive maternal/fetal assessment and earliest safe delivery. In this case, blood pressure should be monitored twice daily and fetal status should be assessed at least twice weekly with a non-stress test and a biophysiologic profile. Delivery at maturity is still mandatory in this group of patients, unless induction has been unsuccessful. In the latter case, cesarean section or a second trial of induction must be considered. |
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