Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Abstract

"Pregnancy-induced hypertension" (HDP) describes a spectrum of disorders, including gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia. Each of these disease processes can progress to a more pathologic case with worsening hypertensive disease, end-organ damage, and concerning clinical sequelae. Risk factors for HDP include nulliparity, a prior pregnancy complicated by hypertension, and obesity. Close blood pressure monitoring, serologic and urine testing, and prompt clinical follow-up remain the gold standard for antenatal diagnosis and surveillance. Optimizing maternal and neonatal outcomes involves early prenatal diagnosis, a multidisciplinary team-based approach, and referral to an experienced provider for cases with advanced pathology.

Keywords: Blood pressure; Eclampsia; Gestational hypertension; Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy; Maternal morbidity and mortality; Preeclampsia.