Prevalence and Pregnancy Outcomes of Preeclampsia/Eclampsia Phenotypes: A Multicenter Prospective Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The two main phenotypic types of preeclampsia/eclampsia (P/E) are early and late onset. The classification is necessary for prognostication of the disorder and better management. In Nigeria, information regarding the prevalence and pregnancy outcomes is still sparse. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of phenotypic patterns and pregnancy outcomes of P/E patients in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A multi-centered cross-sectional design was adopted. One hundred and thirty-three P/E patients were recruited consecutively over a period of 5 months, and a semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Outcomes measured included the prevalence of P/E and the phenotypes, maternal characteristics of the phenotypes, delivery rate, and feto-maternal outcomes. Results: The prevalence of P/E was 7.2% (133 out of 1831 deliveries); proportions of early versus late onset phenotypes were 45.9% and 54.1%, respectively. There was no significant difference in the mode of delivery and adverse maternal outcomes, mean booking weight, and special baby care intensive unit admission between the two (P > 0.05): however, live birth rate, birth weight, and gestational age at delivery were significantly higher in late-onset compared with early-onset P/E (P = 0.032, <0.001, and <0.001, respectively). Conclusion: The prevalence of P/E was high; late onset P/E was slightly more frequent than the early onset phenotype. Perinatal outcome was better for late onset compared to early onset P/E. Therefore, since early onset phenotype, though less common, is associated with poorer outcomes, there should be prioritization of resources once diagnosed for improved outcome.

Keywords

• early-onset preeclampsia
• eclampsia
• late-onset preeclampsia
• pregnancy outcomes