Early Onset Preeclampsia Diagnosis Prior to the 20th Week of Gestation in a Twin Pregnancy Managed via Selective Reduction of an Intrauterine Growth Restriction Fetus: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

A single, healthy, 44-year-old perimenopausal woman pursuing a pregnancy, employed donor embryos, resulting to a dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy. In the 18th week of gestation severe symptoms indicated early onset preeclampsia reporting severe hypertension (BP 180/90 mmHg), intense headaches and nausea as well as elevated 24-h urine protein levels (1.5 g/day). Concurrently diagnosis of an IUGR fetus was concluded. Standard pharmaceutical administration for treating preeclampsia was ordered. Persistence of symptoms indicated recommendation for pregnancy termination, however the patient opted against this. Selective embryo reduction was performed as the last resort prior to pregnancy termination. Following selective reduction the headaches and nausea were successfully subdued and the patient’s blood pressure was adjusted (mean BP 130/80 mmHg). This enabled further progression of pregnancy for an impressive 11 week-period, and a live birth on the 30th week. To conclude, only a few rare cases have been reported with diagnosis of early onset preeclampsia prior to the 20th week mark and none report live births. Albeit termination of pregnancy was recommended, the management of selective reduction of the IUGR fetus enabled successful treatment of preeclampsia coupled by a live birth of a healthy infant without any perinatal or postnatal complications reported.