[Adrenergic receptors and hypertension in pregnancy].

During the last 10 years, radioligand binding studies have greatly advanced our knowledge about adrenoceptors in circulating lymphocytes. In essential hypertension the activity of the sympathetic system seems to be altered. Stimulation of the sympathetic system leads to rapid increase of lymphocyte beta-2-adrenoceptor density. In contrast, gestational hypertension is characterized by a decrease in cardiac output and enhanced arteriolar and venolar resistance. Peripheral resistance is modulated by alpha- and beta adrenoceptors and further studies are needed to characterize and quantify adrenoceptor density in gestational hypertension.