Pre-eclampsia: A comprehensive review of pathophysiology, clinical features, prevention and management
1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, Nigeria.
2 Department of Paediatrics, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Ituku-Ozala, Enugu, Nigeria.
Research Article
World Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical and Medical Research, 2025, 09(01), 012-019.
Article DOI: 10.53346/wjapmr.2025.9.1.0030
Publication history:
Received on 06 June 2025; revised on 16 July 2025; accepted on 19 July 2025
Abstract:
Background: Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy characterized by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria or end-organ dysfunction after 20 weeks of gestation. It remains a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide.
Objective: To provide a concise overview of the pathophysiology, clinical features, prevention, and current management strategies for preeclampsia.
Methods: A narrative review of recent literature on preeclampsia was conducted, focusing on diagnostic criteria, risk factors, and therapeutic approaches.
Results: Abnormal placentation, systemic endothelial dysfunction, and exaggerated inflammatory responses contribute to preeclampsia’s pathogenesis. Clinically, it manifests with hypertension, proteinuria, and potentially severe complications such as eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and multi-organ involvement. Management centers on blood pressure control, seizure prophylaxis, and timely delivery, balancing maternal and fetal risks. Aspirin prophylaxis in high-risk women has shown efficacy in reducing incidence.
Conclusion: Early identification and individualized management of preeclampsia are critical to improving outcomes. Ongoing research is exploring predictive biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets to prevent or mitigate this complex disorder.
Keywords:
Pre-eclampsia; Pathophysiology; Clinical features; Management
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