[Preeclampsia and eclampsia]

Preeclampsia is a multisystem disorder after the 20(th) week of gestation, that is usually associated with raised blood pressure, proteinuria, and pathologic edema. Eclampsia is defined as the occurrence of conculsions in association with the syndrome of preeclampsia. In Europe and other developed countries eclampsia complicates approximately 1 in 2,000 deliveries, while in developing countries estimates vary between 1 in 100 to 1 in 1,700. 44% of seizures occur postnatally, the remainder being antepartum (38%) or intrapartum (18%). Although rare, eclampsia probably accounts for 50,000 maternal deaths a year world-wide. In this review article we discussed conditions, which are associated with a higher incidence of preeclampsia, pathophysiology, findings at physical examination, principles of treatment (blood pressure control, anticonvulsant therapy, and fluid management), post-partum management, complications, maternal morbidity and mortality, as well as prevention.