Pre-eclampsia is diagnosed by which combination of findings?

• A. Hypertension after 20 weeks' gestation plus proteinuria or end-organ dysfunction
• B. Hypotension before 20 weeks' gestation
• C. Hypertension after 10 weeks without proteinuria
• D. Edema alone

Answer: (A)

This question hinges on how pre-eclampsia is diagnosed: new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation must occur together with proteinuria or with signs of end-organ dysfunction. The presence of high blood pressure after mid-pregnancy isn’t enough by itself—protein in the urine or another systemic problem confirms the condition. Edema by itself isn’t diagnostic, since swelling is common in many pregnancies. End-organ dysfunction can include things like elevated liver enzymes, reduced platelet count, renal impairment, or neurologic symptoms such as severe headaches or visual changes.