[Immunological concepts of the etiology of EPH-gestosis].

Immunofluorescent findings are revealing EPH-gestosis as an immunological disease similar to graft rejection. Deposits of immunoglobulins, complement, and fibrinogen/fibrin are localized in the glomerular capillaries, mesangium of the kidney and in the decidual arteries resembling findings in transplanted organs with signs of rejection. Fibrinoid changes of the villous stroma are found in greater amounts in placentae after gestosis revealing a more lively humoral reaction of the immune system. By mixed lymphocyte culture a cellular hyperreactivity of the mother against her fetus can be demonstrated. In conclusion, gestosis is a disease of humoral and cellular hyperreactivity finally resulting in the well-known peripheral symptoms edema, hypertension, and proteinuria. Early diagnosis followed by an effective therapy is desirable in preventing these secondary effects.