A study reveals that preeclampsia during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of developing kidney failure.

A total of 20 cases of kidney failure were identified and available for analysis. The average age at diagnosis of kidney failure was 52.6 years. Per chart review, 8/20 (40%) cases vs 5/40 controls (12.5%) had preeclampsia or eclampsia (which is characterized by convulsions). Diabetes and hypertension were more common in cases than controls (50% vs 15%, 80% vs 45%, respectively).
"Preeclampsia is associated with a higher odds of end stage renal disease. However, after adjusting for diabetes and hypertension, the association was attenuated and no longer significant," according to the investigators. "Larger population-based studies that rely on chart review or prospective studies are needed to confirm the association of preeclampsia and end stage renal disease."
Source-Eurekalert