Maternal and Perinatal Outcome of Eclampsia in a Tertiary Care Centre of Darbhanga

Abstract

Background: Eclampsia continues to be a major cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, especially in underdeveloped countries, and a devastating obstetric emergency. The burden of eclampsia is disproportionately high in the Indian state of Bihar, where healthcare infrastructure frequently fails to fulfill the needs of a dense rural population.

Objectives: This study's main goal was to assess the clinical profile and sociodemographic traits of women who presented with eclampsia. In order to find weaknesses in the current healthcare delivery system, secondary goals included evaluating perinatal outcomes and examining the particular causes of maternal illness and mortality.

Methods: Over the course of a year, this prospective observational study was carried out at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), Darbhanga. 145 women having an eclampsia diagnosis were included in the study. Management used the Pritchard regimen in accordance with established institutional procedures. Analysis was done on clinical presentation, delivery method, and fetomaternal complications.

Results: Young primigravidae had the highest incidence (68.2%), with an astounding 86.2% of referrals being unbooked. The most common presentation (64.8%) was antepartum eclampsia. In 55.8% of instances, a cesarean section was necessary. Pulmonary edema (4.1%) and HELLP syndrome (9.6%) were the two main maternal consequences. The rate of maternal death was 4.1%. With a high incidence of low birth weight (58.6%) and a perinatal mortality rate of 35.5%, perinatal outcomes were compromised.

Conclusion: Mothers and newborns in the Darbhanga region continue to suffer greatly from eclampsia. The findings show that in order to shorten the time between seizure onset and tertiary care intervention, it is imperative to improve transit infrastructure and bolster antenatal surveillance at the local level.

Keywords: HELLP