Evaluation of methods used in the prediction of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Several methods used in the prediction of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) were evaluated with statistical techniques. Only cohort studies were considered. The data reviewed show that platelet count, hematocrit, serum uric acid, and microalbuminuria are poor predictors of HDP. Mean arterial pressure predicts transient hypertension rather than preeclampsia. Fibronectin, urinary calcium excretion, roll-over test, and Doppler ultrasound showed contradictory and nonconclusive findings among the different authors. Isometric exercise test showed high predictive values but only two studies have been performed. Angiotensin II sensitivity was the test that showed the best predictive values but it is useless in clinical practice. In conclusion, currently, there is no test that fulfills all criteria established to be a good predictor of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The search for an adequate method for the screening of HDP with a high sensitivity, inexpensive, and easy to perform should still be a priority in future investigations.