Late postpartum eclampsia.

ABSTRACT

Studies lack data regarding incidence, risk factors, optimal treatment and outcome of postpartum eclampsia (PPE), convulsions within 7 days (mostly convulsions occur within 24 - 48 h) after delivery of fetus placenta. However, convulsions can occur late, up to 4 weeks. After 48 h, it is late PPE. Late postpartum eclampsia without preceding pre-eclampsia is rare and poses a diagnostic challenge. An observational study was carried out to find the frequency of PPE, late PPE and clinical profile for prediction/prevention of mortality. PPE cases were analysed from retrospective records and prospective cases. Of 39,050 births, 386 were eclampsia (0.98%); PPE 101 (26.1% eclampsia, 0.26% births); 14.85% were late PPE. Of PPE, 52 (51.48%) were diagnosed hypertensive disorders pre-delivery and 49 (48.51%) were de novo. Prior to convulsions, 56 (55.5%) had headaches, six (5.9%) visual disturbances; nine (8.9) dizziness; four (4.0%) epigastric pain; 18 (17.8%) had no complaints. Research needs to continue and quality care is essential.