Preeclampsia is defined as new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks with proteinuria or organ dysfunction. Which option correctly describes this?

• A. New-onset hypertension after 20 weeks with proteinuria or organ dysfunction
• B. Hypertension that occurs before 20 weeks
• C. Gestational diabetes with hypertension
• D. Postpartum hypertension

Answer: (A)

Think about what defines preeclampsia: it’s a hypertensive problem that starts after mid-pregnancy and is diagnosed when new high blood pressure develops after 20 weeks accompanied by either protein in the urine or signs of organ involvement. This option fits precisely because it states new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks with either proteinuria or organ dysfunction. The other scenarios don’t match the diagnostic criteria: hypertension that occurs before 20 weeks points to chronic or gestational hypertension rather than preeclampsia; combining hypertension with diabetes isn’t the defining feature; and hypertension that appears after delivery is postpartum, not during pregnancy.