New Trends of Preeclampsia.

Kim, Jong In

Review

Korean Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology 2006;49(4):750-761.
Published online April 1, 2006.

New Trends of Preeclampsia.

Jong In Kim

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine Keimyung University, Daegu, Korea. k1011@dsmc.or.kr

Abstract

Preeclampsia is a leading cause of death and disability in mothers and infants. It's cause remains unknown. The only effective treatment is delivery. Preeclampsia is currently believed to be a 2-stage disease. The first stage is characterized by shallow cytotrophoblast invasion of maternal spiral arteriole, resulting in placental insufficiency. There are no maternal signs and symptoms during this stage. The hypoxic placenta release soluble factors into maternal circulation, which induce systemic endothelial dysfunction. This cause the second stage of the disease: the maternal syndrome. During this stage, the clinical signs of preeclampsia, are manifested. We review the evidence that an imbalance of circulating angiogenic factors, the prevention and treatment of preeclampsia including antioxidants for the prevention of preeclampsia, the expectant management and antihypertensive medications to treat mild and severe hypertension in women preeclampsia.

Key Words: Preeclapmsia, Angiogenic factors, Antioxidants, Management