In this preeclampsia scenario, which findings are most consistent with the diagnosis?

In this preeclampsia scenario, which findings are most consistent with the diagnosis?

• A. Hypertension
• B. All of the above
• C. Proteinuria
• D. Hyperreflexia

Answer: (B)

Preeclampsia is defined by new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation with evidence of organ involvement, most classically proteinuria. Hypertension confirms the vascular problem, while proteinuria shows renal involvement from placental dysfunction. Hyperreflexia reflects CNS irritability and can signal worsening toward seizures. When these findings occur together, they fit the pattern of preeclampsia, indicating both the maternal blood pressure issue and organ involvement. If only hypertension were present, it would suggest gestational hypertension, but the added proteinuria makes the diagnosis preeclampsia. Hyperreflexia adds to the clinical picture but is not by itself diagnostic; with hypertension and proteinuria, it supports the overall diagnosis.

Preeclampsia is defined by new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation with evidence of organ involvement, most classically proteinuria. Hypertension confirms the vascular problem, while proteinuria shows renal involvement from placental dysfunction. Hyperreflexia reflects CNS irritability and can signal worsening toward seizures. When these findings occur together, they fit the pattern of preeclampsia, indicating both the maternal blood pressure issue and organ involvement. If only hypertension were present, it would suggest gestational hypertension, but the added proteinuria makes the diagnosis preeclampsia. Hyperreflexia adds to the clinical picture but is not by itself diagnostic; with hypertension and proteinuria, it supports the overall diagnosis.