[Pathogenesis and morphology of pregnancy toxemias]

Data from the literature on the pathogenesis and morphological manifestations of nephropathy in pregnant women are presented. Three most common concepts of the pathogenesis of this disease are described: coagulopathy, primary alteration of the endothelium, and immunological disorders. The latter is currently considered to be the most convincing. Information on morphological changes in the kidneys and placenta in nephropathy are presented. The data from the literature on immunohistochemical and electron microscopic manifestations found in kidney biopsies and their reversibility are discussed in detail.