Prenatal screening for pre-eclampsia: Frequently asked questions

Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2019 Aug;59(4):477-483. doi: 10.1111/ajo.12982. Epub 2019 May 22.

Abstract

The current approach to screening for pre-eclampsia is based on guidelines that rely on medical and obstetric history in early pregnancy to select a high-risk group that might benefit from low-dose aspirin. However, combined screening tests with the addition of biophysical and biochemical measurements have shown significantly better detection rates for preterm pre-eclampsia. Furthermore, the administration of aspirin for the 10% screen-positive group can lead to a significant reduction in severe and preterm forms of pre-eclampsia. This review aims to answer frequently asked questions related to the clinical implementation of screening and the management of screening results.

Keywords: aspirin; hypertensive disorders in pregnancy; pre-eclampsia; prevention; screening.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pre-Eclampsia / diagnosis*
  • Pre-Eclampsia / etiology
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Diagnosis*
  • Risk Factors