Massive ascites in severe pre-eclampsia: a rare complication.

We report three rare cases of massive maternal ascites complicating severe pre-eclamptic toxemia seen in the last 18 months. This complication developed in association with the rise of blood pressure to 160/110 mmHg or more, worsening of proteinuria and hyperuricemia. The onset of massive ascites caused respiratory compromise in all these patients, thus necessitating immediate termination of pregnancy.