Preeclampsia: a review of the evidence

Ann Afr Med. 2013 Apr-Jun;12(2):75-85. doi: 10.4103/1596-3519.112395.

Abstract

Preeclampsia is a common complication of pregnancy associated with high maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality especially in developing countries. There is considerable progress in the understanding of the pathophysiology and the management of the diseases, although the aetiology and primary pathology remained elusive. Integration of current evidence in the clinical management of the condition has witnessed improved maternal and fetal outcomes in many societies. In developing countries variations in management often not based on current evidence accounts for comparatively higher morbidity and mortality. This article aims to provide an overview of our present understanding of preeclampsia help care providers and our managers focus practice and policy to reflect existing evidence.

MeSH terms

  • Developing Countries
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Morbidity
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / diagnosis
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / mortality
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / physiopathology
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / therapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Risk Factors
  • Severity of Illness Index