Prediction and prevention of preeclampsia and IUGR

Preeclampsia, being one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, has been the subject of extensive research since its description. Preeclampsia has been called the disease of theories due to the enigma surrounding its exact pathophysiology. Despite the absence of treatment that reverses the disease process once started, screening for preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) has been a major clinical and research issue since the disease was first reported. This review evaluates the current evidence for prediction and prevention of preeclampsia and IUGR using clinical tests, maternal serum markers, and uterine artery Doppler screening. In addition, we critically evaluate the evidence regarding the different therapeutic strategies for the prevention of preeclampsia and IUGR and the latest clinical recommendations for their use. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.