ECLAMPSIA: A REVIEW OF SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS AND PREGNANCY OUTCOME IN A NEW TERTIARY INSTITUTION IN NORTH EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

Background: Eclampsia still remains a fatal complication of pregnancy and of the leading obstetrics emergencies in our subregion. Objectives: To determine the socio-demographic characteristics, pattern, and maternal and foetal outcomes associated with eclampsia in our environment. Methods: Retrospective reviews of cases of eclampsia managed over two year period (January 2006 to December 2007) at Federal Medical Centre Nguru. Information pertaining to their socio-demography and pregnancy outcome were obtained for analysis and interpretation. Results: A total of 2,498 deliveries were recorded out of which 92 were cases of eclampsia giving a prevalence of 48.4/1000 deliveries. Age group 20-29 were the the ,ost affected (58.3%), while the Hausa's were the predominant ethnic group. Majority 65.4% were primigravidae, 68.4% did not have antenatal care and 9.8% did not have formal education. Spontaneous vaginal delivery occurred among 61.1%. Fifteen maternal deaths were recorded giving a case fatality rate of 16.3%. Diazepam was the anticonvulsant used in all the patients. Postpartum eclampsia is the commonest type of eclampsia observed. Conclusion: Prevalence of eclampsia remained high with high case fatality and very high perinatal mortality (PMR) though it's preventable. Community sensitisation, ensuring availability and accessibility to skilled antenatal care and delivery will contribute to lowering and minimising the calamities of this disease

Keywords

• eclampsia
• socio-demographic characteristics
• maternal outcome
• fetal outcome