Vasoactive factors in the preeclampsia pathogenesis

Preeclampsia-eclampsia is still one oi the leading causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Despite active research for many years, the etiology of this disorder exclusive to human pregnancy is enigma. Recent evidence suggests there may be several underlying causes or predispositions leading to the signs of hypertension, proteinuria and edema, findings that allow us to make ithe diagnosis of the «syndrome» of preeclampsia. Despite improved prenatal care, severe preeclampsia and eclampsia still occur. Although understanding of the pal pathophysiology of there disordes has improved, treatment has not changed significantly in over 30 years. Although postponement of delivery in selected women with severe preeclampsia improves fetal outcome to a degree, this is not done without risk to the mot her. The search for the underlying cause of this disorder and for a clinical marker to predict those women who will develop preeclampsia-eclampsia is ongoing, with its prevention the ultimate goal. Moreover, prospective longitudinal studies are needed to better assess the role of circulating angiogenic factors for the identification women at high risk of preeclampsia and the early diagnosis of disease.