A comprehensive review of hypertension in pregnancy.
Hypertension is the most common medical disorder encountered during pregnancy. Hypertensive disorders are one of the major causes of pregnancy-related maternal deaths in the United States. We will present a comprehensive update of the literature pertinent to hypertension in pregnancy. The paper begins by defining and classifying hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. The normal vascular and renal physiological changes which occur during pregnancy are detailed. We will summarize the intriguing aspects of pathophysiology of preeclampsia, emphasizing on recent advances in this field. The existing diagnostic tools and the tests which have been proposed for screening preeclampsia are comprehensively described. We also highlight the short- and long-term implications of preeclampsia. Finally, we review the current management guidelines, goals of treatment and describe the potential risks and benefits associated with various antihypertensive drug classes. Preeclampsia still remains an enigma, and the present management focuses on monitoring and treatment of its manifestations. We are hopeful that this in depth critique will stimulate the blossoming research in the field and assist practitioners to identify women at risk and more effectively treat affected individuals.
Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14215, USA.
Reem
R
Mustafa
Sana
S
Ahmed
Anu
A
Gupta
Rocco C
RC
Venuto
D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000378:metabolism; D001942:Breast Feeding; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D046110:Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D011247:Pregnancy; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D012065:Relaxin / Q000378:metabolism; D012084:Renin-Angiotensin System / Q000502:physiology
D000959:Antihypertensive Agents; D015415:Biomarkers; D012065:Relaxin