Which condition is considered an early development of gestational hypertension?

• A. Placenta previa
• B. Gestational trophoblastic disease
• C. Chronic hypertension
• D. Autoimmune disorders

Answer: (B)

Gestational hypertension typically arises after the 20th week of pregnancy and is characterized by elevated blood pressure in a previously normotensive woman. Gestational trophoblastic disease is related but distinct—it involves abnormal placental development that can lead to a spectrum of conditions, such as molar pregnancies. As this condition leads to an increase of certain hormones and abnormal placental growth, it can cause symptoms that are also associated with gestational hypertension.

While placenta previa, chronic hypertension, and autoimmune disorders are relevant in obstetric care, they do not specifically signify the early development of gestational hypertension. Placenta previa is primarily related to the position of the placenta, chronic hypertension is a pre-existing condition before pregnancy, and autoimmune disorders may cause various complications, but they do not inherently indicate the onset of gestational hypertension. Therefore, gestational trophoblastic disease serves as a better context for understanding an early development of gestational hypertension.