Preeclampsia may be diagnosed when new onset hypertension is associated with what?

Preeclampsia may be diagnosed when new onset hypertension is associated with what?

• A. Diplopia
• B. Proteinuria
• C. Seizures
• D. Headache

Answer: (A)

Preeclampsia is diagnosed when new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks gestation is accompanied by proteinuria or signs of end-organ dysfunction. Proteinuria is the classic accompanying finding that confirms the diagnosis, because it directly indicates kidney involvement from placental-derived pathology. Visual disturbances like diplopia can occur in severe cases due to cerebral involvement, and headaches can accompany the condition, but they do not by themselves establish the diagnosis. Seizures mark progression to eclampsia, not the initial diagnosis of preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia is diagnosed when new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks gestation is accompanied by proteinuria or signs of end-organ dysfunction. Proteinuria is the classic accompanying finding that confirms the diagnosis, because it directly indicates kidney involvement from placental-derived pathology. Visual disturbances like diplopia can occur in severe cases due to cerebral involvement, and headaches can accompany the condition, but they do not by themselves establish the diagnosis. Seizures mark progression to eclampsia, not the initial diagnosis of preeclampsia.