Hypertensive diseases in pregnancy

Abstract

Hypertension is one of the most common complications of pregnancy, with potential adverse effects for both mother and fetus. Controversy exists in the classification and differential diagnosis of the hypertensive disorders, which include preeclampsia-eclampsia, chronic hypertension, preeclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension, and transient hypertension. This review discusses the problems clinicians face in the diagnosis of these disorders, as well as key management issues. With proper diagnosis and treatment, pregnant hypertensive patients should be spared the most serious sequelae of hypertension, and most should enjoy a successful pregnancy outcome.