[Severe preeclampsia. Appropriate management and socio-cultural factors]

Preeclampsia in its severe form is characterized by a high incidence of both maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Its prevention is therefore one of the fundamental goals of modern obstetrics.

Twenty-two women with severe preeclampsia have been perspectively examined and compared with 66 women without preeclampsia with the aim to evaluate the effect of the prenatal care and the influence of sociocultural variables.

Differences between the two groups weren't observed with regard to sociocultural features, but the women with severe preeclampsia were treated later and less controlled during pregnancy.

Preeclampsia requires a careful surveillance and an intense care, above all in its severe form, to avoid the high tribute of maternal and fetal complications that this syndrome still causes today.