Eclampsia

Eclampsia is a severe complication of pregnancy characterized by the occurrence of one or more seizures (convulsions) in a woman suffering from pre-eclampsia. It is considered a life-threatening medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to safeguard the mother and baby.

Dissection of uterus at term eclampsia

Etiology and Pathophysiology

• The exact cause of eclampsia remains unknown, but it is closely associated with pre-eclampsia, a disorder characterized by high blood pressure and significant amounts of protein in the urine after the 20th week of pregnancy. Eclampsia occurs when pre-eclampsia is not controlled and escalates.
• Though the exact pathophysiology is unclear, several theories suggest abnormal placentation, immunological factors, dietary factors, and genetic predisposition may be involved.

Symptoms and Signs

• Women with eclampsia exhibit symptoms of severe pre-eclampsia along with seizures. Key features may include:
• Seizures not linked to a pre-existing brain condition
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Proteinuria (protein in urine)
• Headache
• Visual disturbances such as blurred vision or seeing spots
• Upper abdominal pain, usually under the ribs on the right side

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of eclampsia is typically made based on the clinical presentation of seizures in a woman with pre-eclampsia.
• Blood tests are carried out to monitor liver and kidney function, as well as to check blood clotting status. An ultrasound scan may be used to monitor the baby's health, and in some cases, additional tests like electroencephalogram (EEG) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be required to rule out other causes of seizures.

Treatment and Management

• The definitive treatment for eclampsia is delivery of the baby, often by cesarean section, once the mother's condition is stabilized. However, the timing of the delivery must consider the mother's health, the severity of the eclampsia, and the gestational age of the fetus.
• Immediate management includes controlling the seizures, usually with an anticonvulsant such as magnesium sulfate, and managing high blood pressure. Careful monitoring of the mother and baby is crucial throughout the process.

Prognosis and Prevention

• With appropriate management, the prognosis of eclampsia is generally good for both mother and child. However, complications can arise if not treated promptly.
• Prevention of eclampsia predominantly involves the early detection and management of pre-eclampsia. Regular antenatal care is crucial for identifying and managing this and other pregnancy-related complications.

References

<references>

• "Eclampsia". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2023-05-25.
• "Eclampsia and Pre-eclampsia". NHS. Retrieved 2023-05-25.

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