Eclampsia: 134 consecutive cases

OBJECTIVE: A retrospective analysis of all cases of eclampsia (134) at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana, in 1991, was undertaken to determine future directions in prevention and management. METHODS: One hundred and thirty-four consecutive cases of eclampsia were reviewed to assess possible risk factors, associated medical impact, and the usefulness of prenatal care. RESULTS: Risk factors for the development of eclampsia include: young age, delivery in the rainy season, nulliparity, multiple pregnancy, prolonged labor, and lack of prenatal care. Eclampsia is associated with high maternal and perinatal mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Future emphasis on prenatal clinics, and earlier detection and management of pre-eclampsia should lessen the incidence of this severe obstetric emergency. © 1994.