toxemia

(tŏk-sē'mē-ə)
n.
A condition in which the blood contains toxins produced by body cells at a local source of infection or derived from the growth of microorganisms. Also called blood poisoning.

toxemic tox·e'mic adj.

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Toxemia is the presence of abnormal substances in the blood, but the term is also used in reference to a condition in pregnancy also known as preeclampsia. This refers to pregnancy-induced hypertension (high blood pressure) and any possible accompanying symptoms, such as quick or sudden weight gain, water retention, and excessive swelling of the feet, hands, and face. The condition is most common among first pregnancies, with multiple births (e.g., twins), in younger or older women, and in women who had preeclampsia in previous pregnancies. It generally occurs near the due date, but it can also occur earlier in pregnancy. When monitoring a female with toxemia, the blood pressure and urine protein are checked often and bed rest may be prescribed. Toxemia can be mild or severe. When severe, it is dangerous for both the pregnant female and her child, especially if the mother's blood pressure gets too high.

See also Pregnancy.

Bibliography
Sizer, Frances, and Whitney, Eleanor (2003). Nutrition Concepts and Controversies, 9th edition. Belmont, CA: Thomson.

Internet Resources
Hill, D. Ashley. "Issues and Procedures in Women's Health: Pre-eclampsia." Available from ttp://www.obgyn.ne

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Emanating from or pertaining to toxemia.

• t. agalactia — see mastitis–metritis–agalactia.
• t. jaundice — a complex of diseases in sheep including phytogenous chronic copper poisoning in which copper accumulation is fostered by copper converter plants such as subterranean clover, hepatogenous chronic copper poisoning, a combination of copper and plant poisoning, and simple poisoning by the same plants without any copper component. The clinical signs include jaundice, toxemia, possibly severe anemia.
• t. shock — caused by the presence of large quantities of potent toxins in the bloodstream. They cause peripheral vasodilatation and a precipitate fall in blood pressure accompanied by mucosal pallor, hypothermia, tachycardia and muscle weakness, e.g. in coliform toxicosis.

For a list of words related to toxemia, see:

• Afflictions and Conditions - toxemia: blood poisoning caused by toxins formed by bacteria at site of infection
• Signs and Symptoms - toxemia: accumulation of toxins in blood

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