What laboratory findings are indicative of pre-eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by the onset of high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the kidneys, after 20 weeks of gestation. The hallmark laboratory findings that indicate pre-eclampsia include hypertension, which is defined as a blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher, proteinuria, which is the presence of excess protein in the urine, and edema, which refers to swelling due to fluid retention.

The presence of hypertension and proteinuria is essential for the diagnosis of pre-eclampsia, and edema can also accompany these findings, helping to further characterize the condition. Monitoring these parameters is crucial in managing the health of both the mother and the fetus, as pre-eclampsia can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

The other options present scenarios that do not align with the criteria for diagnosing pre-eclampsia. Low blood sugar and elevated white blood cells might indicate other health issues unrelated to pre-eclampsia. Normal blood pressure with high hemoglobin does not correspond to the critical factors needed for diagnosis. Low platelets and decreased liver enzymes could suggest other complications, such as HELLP syndrome, which is a severe form of pre-eclampsia