What condition is characterized by hypertension in pregnancy associated with proteinuria?

Preeclampsia is characterized by hypertension in pregnancy along with the presence of proteinuria. This condition typically occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy and is associated with other systemic symptoms that can affect the mother and fetus, such as edema, headaches, and changes in vision. The diagnosis is crucial because untreated preeclampsia can progress to serious complications for both the mother and the baby, including eclampsia, which is marked by seizures.

Gestational diabetes primarily involves impaired glucose tolerance during pregnancy and does not include proteinuria as a defining feature. Eclampsia is the progression of preeclampsia, introducing seizures but is not the defining characteristic associated with hypertension and proteinuria. Therefore, recognizing preeclampsia helps in monitoring and managing risks effectively in pregnancies.