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Pre-eclampsia or preeclampsia is a multi-system disorder of pregnancy traditionally characterized by the occurrence of high blood pressure and significant amounts of the urine (termed proteinuria)Because preeclampsia is a multi-system disorder, proteinuria need not be present for diagnosis. In the absence of proteinuria, evidence of organ dysfunction such as low platelets (thrombocytopenia), impaired liver function, the development of new kidney dysfunction, fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema), and/or new-onset brain or visual disturbances may be used to establish a diagnosis. If left untreated, preeclampsia can develop into eclampsia, the life-threatening occurrence of seizures during pregnancy. Preeclampsia is associated with multiple maternal and fetal adverse effects.

Preeclampsia affects between 2-8% of pregnancies worldwide. Preeclmampsia may develop after 20 weeks of gestation, though most commonly after 32 weeks. Preeclampsia occurring before 32 weeks is considered early-onset and is associated with increased morbidity. Most cases are diagnosed before the predicted time typical labor would begin. Rarely, preeclampsia may also occur up to six weeks after delivery. Delivery of the fetus and placenta is the only known treatment for preeclampsia.