Eclampsia, Study of 342 Cases

Abstract

Objectives. To conduct a prospective review of all cases of eclampsia over a 4-year period and to establish prognostic factors that may assist in reducing morbidity and mortality in these patients. Methods. The population studied was split into two groups: Group1 (survivors) and Group 2 (deceased). We compared their demographic, clinical, biological and radiological data. Patients were regularly followed for 2 months after discharge. Quantitative and qualitative statistic tests were used. Results. 342 cases of eclampsia were studied. Based on 37,467 pregnancies in the 4-year period, in our catchment area, we estimated an overall incidence of 0.91%. 62.5% of patients were nulliparous and 82% of all patients had no ongoing antenatal care. 71% were delivered by Cesarean section. 23 (6.7%) maternal deaths were recorded. Our findings suggested that poor prognosis factors were: diastolic blood pressure > 115 mm Hg, Glasgow Coma Scale < 8, thrombocytopenia, liver cytolysis, acute renal failure, cerebral edema and hemorrhage, and pulmonary edema. Conclusions. This disease remains a veritable health problem in our country. We need to improve antenatal follow-up by increasing mothers' awareness and by facilitating access to medical care.

Keywords:

• Eclampsia
• Pregnancy
• Maternal mortality
• Hypertension