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.