Preeclampsia — A Glimpse into the Future?

Abstract

Preeclampsia, a disorder of pregnancy characterized by elevated blood pressure and proteinuria, complicates approximately 5% of pregnancies.¹ Although several risk factors for this condition are well recognized, including nulliparity, extremes of maternal age, obesity, and preexisting diabetes or hypertension, the causes of preeclampsia remain uncertain; recent studies have suggested that circulating angiogenic factors, alterations in the renin–angiotensin system, and insulin resistance may be involved in pathogenesis.¹ Despite several trials examining various interventions,¹ no strategy has proved effective in the prevention or treatment of preeclampsia other than delivery of the fetus. Complications include maternal stroke, renal failure, and placental abruption; offspring . . .