preeclampsia
Pronunciation: pree-ih-KLAMP-see-ah
A pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and protein in urine after 20 weeks gestation.
Full Definition
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy disorder that typically develops after 20 weeks of gestation, characterized by hypertension and proteinuria. It can progress to eclampsia (seizures) or HELLP syndrome if untreated. The condition affects multiple organ systems and poses significant risks to both mother and baby. Risk factors include first pregnancy, advanced maternal age, and certain medical conditions. Early recognition and management are crucial, making this term frequently appear in prenatal screening protocols, emergency department reports, and maternal mortality reviews.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from eclampsia (with seizures) and HELLP syndrome (with liver involvement). Severity classifications include mild and severe.
In Context
- "The patient developed severe preeclampsia at 34 weeks, requiring immediate delivery." — Emergency obstetric consultation
- "Regular monitoring of blood pressure and urine protein helps detect early signs of preeclampsia." — Prenatal care guideline