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Am J Perinatol 2001; 18(2): 073-078
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-13635
ORIGINAL ARTICLES

Copyright © 2001 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

The Myth of Transient Hypertension: Descriptor or Disease Process?

Dom A. Terrone1 , Brian K. Rinehart2 , Warren L. May3 , Rick W. Martin2 , James N. Martin, Jr.2
  • 1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Saint Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston, New Jersey
  • 2Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
  • 3Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2001 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The objective of this study is to describe the incidence of transient hypertension and to evaluate if transient hypertension is associated with increased maternal or fetal morbidity as compared to other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and normotensive controls. Data were collected from all deliveries at the University of Mississippi Medical Center from July 1, 1996 through January 1, 1997. Patients were grouped according to ACOG criteria for pregnancy induced hypertension. Specific maternal and fetal morbidities were compared among the groups and controls. There were 1489 deliveries during the study period. Nearly 30% of patients met the criteria for transient hypertension. There were no significant differences between patients with transient hypertension and controls in regard to maternal and fetal outcomes. Transient hypertension occurs more often than expected, however, it appears to be of limited clinical significance.

KEYWORD

Preeclampsia - transient hypertension - pregnancy induced hypertension

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