Maternal, Placental, and Fetal Complications of Preeclampsia in Low Resource Settings
Samira Yasir Ibrahim Mohamed *
Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Ministry of Health, National University, Sudan.
Khalid Hussein Bakheit
Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Preeclampsia remains a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where healthcare resources are limited. Understanding the spectrum of its complications is critical for early recognition and management.
Objectives: To review and synthesize existing literature on the maternal, fetal, and placental complications of preeclampsia, with a focus on challenges specific to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Methods: This review draws on published data from peer-reviewed studies conducted predominantly in low-resource settings, highlighting major complications and discussing limitations in available data.
Results: Preeclampsia contributes to a wide range of maternal complications such as eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and organ dysfunction. Fetal outcomes include growth restriction, preterm birth, and stillbirth. Placental pathology, though underreported, plays a central role in disease progression and outcomes. Majority of complications and consequences of preeclampsia are preventable, which is why it is no longer a major concern in developed countries. However, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) must adopt suitable and context-specific strategies to reduce its burden.
Conclusion: Preeclampsia poses significant risks to mothers and infants in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Greater investment in early screening, community education, and health system strengthening is essential. More region-specific, recent data are needed to inform effective interventions.
Keywords: Preeclampsia, maternal and fetal complications, low resource setting