Which combination defines preeclampsia diagnosed after 20 weeks gestation?

Which combination defines preeclampsia diagnosed after 20 weeks gestation?

• A. Blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mmHg with proteinuria
• B. Blood pressure ≥ 160/100 mmHg without proteinuria
• C. Low blood pressure with proteinuria
• D. Proteinuria alone with normal blood pressure

Answer: (A)

Preeclampsia diagnosed after 20 weeks gestation requires new-onset hypertension in pregnancy plus proteinuria. This combination distinguishes it from gestational hypertension (high blood pressure without protein in the urine) and from proteinuria alone (which can occur with other conditions). The scenario with blood pressure at least 140/90 mmHg together with detectable proteinuria fits the defining pattern of preeclampsia. A higher blood pressure value by itself (without proteinuria) does not establish the diagnosis, and proteinuria without hypertension does not either.

Preeclampsia diagnosed after 20 weeks gestation requires new-onset hypertension in pregnancy plus proteinuria. This combination distinguishes it from gestational hypertension (high blood pressure without protein in the urine) and from proteinuria alone (which can occur with other conditions). The scenario with blood pressure at least 140/90 mmHg together with detectable proteinuria fits the defining pattern of preeclampsia. A higher blood pressure value by itself (without proteinuria) does not establish the diagnosis, and proteinuria without hypertension does not either.