Prenatal treatment options are limited due to the potential risks to the fetus. Therefore, patients with PE are simply monitored for signs and symptoms of distress. Pregnant women with mild PE are typically monitored weekly or twice weekly for blood pressure levels. In addition, select laboratory tests are employed to gauge potential progression to HELLP or eclampsia with possible kidney and liver involvement.
Women with severe PE are typically confined to mandatory bed rest and monitored in a manner to prevent seizures and lower their blood pressure. Antihypertensive drugs may be used for the treatment of acute maternal symptoms.
Magnesium sulfate has been used to decrease the incidence of seizures in eclamptic women. Patients receiving this therapy must be monitored closely for magnesium toxicity, especially if decreased liver and kidney function are present.
