1. Pathology. a form of toxemia of pregnancy, characterized by hypertension, fluid retention, and albuminuria, sometimes progressing to eclampsia. preeclampsia, a more common related disorder, is characterized by a large rise in blood pressure and failing kidneys.1. Pathology. a form of toxemia of pregnancy, characterized by hypertension, fluid retention, and albuminuria, sometimes progressing to eclampsia. preeclampsia, a more common related disorder, is characterized by a large rise in blood pressure and failing kidneys.