Antiplatelet Agents for the Prevention of Pre-Eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia (P-EC) remains a significant problem in modern obstetrics occurring in 2 to 4% of women. The disease is still responsible for 60,000 maternal deaths worldwide annually. An increased understanding of the underlying pathophysiology has resulted in a more scientific approach to prophylaxis and prevention, yet the underlying disease mechanisms are not fully understood. The role of combining good prediction with prevention has yet to be established but has the potential to target health resources far more efficiently. Good prediction may also impact on tailoring antenatal care appropriately, with prophylactic measures for high-risk women becoming the highly preferred management option. Antiplatelet agents reduce the incidence and complications of P-EC and should be considered prophylactically in those at high risk of the disease.