Eclampsia, study of 342 cases.

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.