What Are the Health Problems for Off-Spring of Mothers with Pre-eclampsia?

Discussion “Pre-eclampsia is a complex multisystem disease, diagnosed by sudden-onset hypertension (> 20 weeks of gestation) and at least one other associated complication, including proteinuria, maternal organ dysfunction or uteroplacental dysfunction…[It] is one of the most severe complications of pregnancy and a leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.” Deaths per year world wide are estimated to be 500,000 babies and > 70,000 women. Women that survive have decreased life-expectancy and it is estimated that > 300 million women and children are at “…increased risk of chronic health problems due to previous exposure to pre-eclampsia.” Estimate are between 1 – 5.6% of pregnancies have pre-eclampsia. Pre-eclampsia classification is based on symptoms. Eclampsia is a severe complication of pre-eclampsia that has new onset seizures. HELLP syndrome is another severe complication that also has hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet counts. The cause is felt to be placental dysfunction releasing factors into the maternal circulation. The only cure for pre-eclampsia and other severe complications is infant delivery. Patients without severe complications and whose blood pressures are still elevated but lower are also managed with anti-hypertensive medication and close monitoring for worsening signs and laboratory testing. Preventative treatments are being evaluated too including lipid and glucose m...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news