The causes of preeclampsia and eclampsia are not known. These disorders previously were believed to be caused by a toxin in the blood (referred to as toxemia), but health care providers now know that is not true.
To learn more about preeclampsia and eclampsia, scientists are investigating many factors that could contribute to the development and progression of these diseases, including:
- Placental abnormalities, such as insufficient blood flow
- Genetic factors
- Environmental exposures
- Nutritional factors
- Maternal immunology and autoimmune disorders
- Cardiovascular and inflammatory changes
- Hormonal imbalances