Pre-eclampsia
Background: Pre-eclampsia (PE), a pregnancy-induced hypertension disorders occurs in 2-8% of pregnancies and is associated with maternal and perinatal mortality. Pre-eclampsia, is characterized by onset of hypertension accompanied by significant proteinuria after 20 weeks gestation accounting for 17-24% of maternal deaths in low income settings. If left untreated PE may lead to progressive clinical deterioration resulting in seizures (eclampsia), stroke, haemorrhage, kidney damage, liver failure and death.
Diagnosis: Accurate and early diagnosis of PE is still an enigma in resource limited settings. Currently Pre-eclampsia is diagnosed based on the onset of hypertension (BP ≥140/90 mm Hg) and proteinuria (≥0.3g/24 hours) after 20 weeks of gestation. Severe pre-eclampsia may include symptoms such as severe headaches, visual disturbances and upper abdominal pain.
- REDSPOT- PE™, our brand of a rapid Point-of-Care Test (POCT), based on Congo red test method is designed to aid in the diagnosis of Preeclampsia (PE).
- REDSPOT-PE™ is a simple, 10-minute urine-based test that detects misfolded proteins, known to be present in the urine of patients with preeclampsia. The test is easy to use, requires no special equipment, and can be stored at room temperature. This makes it particularly suitable for OPD settings, where follow-up visits may be inconsistent.
- REDSPOT-PE™ enables on-the-spot testing during the patient's initial visit, and is also ideal for triage situations, allowing timely clinical decisions.
Please find below reference studies supporting the Congo red test method for preeclampsia.
Reference studies of Congo red test method