Search

Proteinuria, edema, and an increase in the diastolic pressure, which occurs in the latter months of pregnancy, are well-established indications of preeclampsia. Of these findings, consistent proteinuria is considered most important because it is usually detectable before other signs of preeclampsia appear and because the quantity of protein excreted generally parallels the severity of the condition. Success in the management of the preeclamptic patient is markedly enhanced by its earliest possible diagnosis. Consequently, it is clinically essential to test for proteinuria frequently. It is our routine practice to see all uncomplicated obstetrical patients in the office or the clinic at monthly intervals during the first two trimesters, every three weeks during the seventh month, every two weeks during the eighth month, and weekly during the final month. Testing for proteinuria during these visits is done routinely. However, patients do develop toxemia, sometimes to a marked degree, between visits. For about