[Pre-eclampsia]

Pre-eclampsia or toxaemia of pregnancy is a multi-organ disorder in the second half of pregnancy. Approximately 1-3% of all pregnancies in the Netherlands are complicated by this condition. The disease is characterised by vascular damage resulting in hypertension and proteinuria with high morbidity for both mother and child. The underlying cause is a poorly developed placenta. To date the only real treatment comprises medicinal protection against complications and the disorder can be cured only through termination of pregnancy. Complications range from severe hypertension to maternal mortality due to cerebral haemorrhage. Long-term consequences can be severe for both mother and child. For instance, the risk of cardiovascular disease in mothers in later life is significantly increased. Many risk factors have been identified, including diabetes, BMI and an age of above 40. The association between periodontal disease and pre-eclampsia emphasises the importance of good oral hygiene in the periconceptional period.