Pre-eclampsia: Praxis and Application

Pre-eclampsia occurs in approximately 2-8% of pregnancies worldwide, and is characterised by hypertension and multi-organ system involvement. Globally, approximately ten million women develop pre-eclampsia each year, and an estimated 76 000 women die as a result of pre-eclampsia or other hypertensive disorders. Despite ongoing research, the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia remains unclear. This article will focus on the diagnosis, risk factors and aetiology of pre-eclampsia, while attempting to outline the collaborative management, including treatment and prevention.