Eclampsia

Eclampsia is a serious condition that can occur during pregnancy, involving the nervous system and causing seizures. It usually develops in women who have high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organs, often the kidneys. The main health concern is the sudden onset of seizures that can be life-threatening for both the mother and baby. This condition affects the brain by causing abnormal electrical activity, leading to convulsions. It typically happens after the 20th week of pregnancy or shortly after delivery. Swelling, headaches, and vision changes are common warning signs before seizures begin. Immediate medical attention is critical to manage the condition and prevent complications.

Eclampsia is defined as the occurrence of new-onset, generalized tonic-clonic seizures in a pregnant woman with preexisting preeclampsia, characterized by hypertension and proteinuria or other end-organ dysfunction. The core pathology involves widespread endothelial dysfunction and vasospasm leading to cerebral edema and ischemia. It is a severe complication of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and represents a progression from preeclampsia. The seizures are not attributable to other neurological conditions or metabolic causes. Major clinical significance includes the risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality due to complications such as intracranial hemorrhage, placental abruption, and multi-organ failure. Prompt recognition and management are essential to improve outcomes.