Liver stiffness in preeclampsia as shown by transient elastography

Abstract

Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystem disorder and a leading cause of severe morbidity and death in pregnancy. Liver involvement in preeclampsia ranges from elevated liver enzyme levels to hepatic infarction or rupture. Endothelial dysfunction leads to change in blood flow and congestion, and may have a role in the pathophysiology of PE. Changes in splanchnic blood flow and portal congestion can result in altered liver stiffness (LS). In previous studies, LS, measured by transient elastography, was found to be elevated in preeclamptic women.