Obstetrics & Gynaecology · Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy (Pre-eclampsia, Eclampsia)

A 30-year-old primigravida at 34 weeks presents with BP 158/104 mmHg, proteinuria 2+, and platelet count 85,000/µL with elevated LDH. Which of the following criteria is MOST consistent with the current ACOG (2013 revised) definition of severe features of pre-eclampsia?

  • A Proteinuria > 300 mg/24 hours alone
  • B Systolic BP ≥ 160 mmHg on two occasions 4 hours apart
  • C Platelet count < 100,000/µL
  • D New-onset headache unresponsive to acetaminophen
Correct answer: C. Platelet count < 100,000/µL

Explanation

The 2013 ACOG revised criteria define severe features of pre-eclampsia based on specific thresholds; platelet count < 100,000/µL is listed as a severe feature regardless of BP. Systolic BP ≥ 160 or diastolic ≥ 110 on two occasions 4 hours apart also qualifies, but the threshold is 160 (not 158). Proteinuria quantity was removed as a criterion for severity in the 2013 revision.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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