Eclampsia Flashcards
What is eclampsia?
When severe pre-eclampsia is complicated with generalized convulsions
What is pre-eclampsia?
A hypertensive disorder of pregnancy with multi-organ involvement
What are the characteristics of pre-eclampsia?
New onset raised BP
Proteinuria
Which periods of pregnancy can eclampsia occur?
Antepartum
Intrapartum
Postpartum
What causes eclampsia?
Cerebral oedema or cerebral haemorrhage
Clinical symptoms of eclampsia?
Headache
BP >160 systolic
Hyperreflexia
Visual changes
What type of seizures can occur in eclampsia?
Tonic-clonic seizures
What are some of the potential differentials of eclampsia?>
Epilepsy
Encephalitis
Metabolic disorders
Immediate management of eclampsia?
Medical emergency- ABC approach
Secure airways
IV access
Take bloods
Which bloods need to be taken in management of eclampsia?
LFTs
U&Es
Coagulation
FBC
What should be given to the mother in the management of eclampsia?
Magnesium sulphate (IV)
Antihypertensives- labetalol, hydralazine
Delivery of child has to occur too
How does magnesium sulphate help in eclampsia?
Cerebral dilatation
Competitively blocks calcium at synaptic nerve endings
What should be monitored whilst a patient in on magnesium sulphate?
Respi rate
Reflexes
Urine output
What is the antidote to magnesium sulphate?
Calcium gluconate
->this can be given if toxicity from magnesium sulphate develops
What is the only cure for eclampsia?
Delivery
