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Semin Thromb Hemost 2011; 37(2): 111-117
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1270336
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Hemostasis in Pre-Eclampsia

Siti Khadijah Ismail1 , John R. Higgins2
  • 1Clinical Research Fellow, Anu Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork, Cork University Maternity Hospital, Ireland
  • 2Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Anu Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork, Cork University Maternity Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Ireland
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Publication History

Publication Date:
02 March 2011 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Pre-eclampsia (P-EC) is a multisystem disorder exclusive to pregnancy. It complicates ~2 to 8% of all pregnancies and remains a major cause of maternal mortality. P-EC is characterized by a profound hypercoagulable state. The delicate hemostatic balance that must be maintained in the uteroplacental circulation during pregnancy makes this system vulnerable to perturbation. An abnormal hemostatic pattern occurs within the uteroplacental circulation in P-EC compared with normal pregnancy. Much recent research has focused on the epidemiological link between inherited thrombophilia and P-EC. The data suggest a weak statistical association, indicating an improbable primary role in the pathogenesis. Without clear evidence, low molecular weight heparins have been widely used to reduce recurrence of P-EC in thrombophilia-positive women. This practice now should be reviewed. Future research needs to focus on improving our basic scientific understanding of the role of the hemostatic system in human placentation.

KEYWORDS

Pre-eclampsia - pregnancy - hemostasis - coagulation - fibrinolysis

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Siti Khadijah IsmailM.B. B.Ch. B.A.O. M.R.C.P.I. 

Anu Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College Cork

Cork University Maternity Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Ireland

Email: k.ismail@ucc.ie

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