Which condition is defined by hypertension with new-onset proteinuria or end-organ dysfunction after 20 weeks gestation?

Which condition is defined by hypertension with new-onset proteinuria or end-organ dysfunction after 20 weeks gestation?

• A. Gestational hypertension
• B. Preeclampsia
• C. Chronic hypertension
• D. Eclampsia

Answer: (B)

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder defined by new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation with either proteinuria or evidence of end-organ dysfunction. Proteinuria reflects renal involvement, but if proteinuria isn’t present, end-organ damage such as thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes, renal impairment, pulmonary edema, or cerebral/visual symptoms can also define preeclampsia. This combination after mid-pregnancy distinguishes it from gestational hypertension, which is high blood pressure without proteinuria or organ damage, and from chronic hypertension, which is preexisting hypertension. If seizures occur in this context, the condition progresses to eclampsia.

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder defined by new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation with either proteinuria or evidence of end-organ dysfunction. Proteinuria reflects renal involvement, but if proteinuria isn’t present, end-organ damage such as thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes, renal impairment, pulmonary edema, or cerebral/visual symptoms can also define preeclampsia. This combination after mid-pregnancy distinguishes it from gestational hypertension, which is high blood pressure without proteinuria or organ damage, and from chronic hypertension, which is preexisting hypertension. If seizures occur in this context, the condition progresses to eclampsia.