Renal Disease in Pregnancy

Renal disease in pregnancy may be progressive but only rarely. The problems encountered that create maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality relate to the development of superimposed preeclampsia and renal failure. Diagnosis is important to differentiate the cause of renal pathology so that appropriate treatment can be undertaken. The use of medications in renal disease in the presence of hypertension is controversial; however, adequate therapy should be given if indicated. Most cases of renal disease in pregnancy do not require termination; however, counseling concerning pregnancy is needed initially or subsequently.