Successful Induction of Labour in a Patient with Antepartum Eclampsia: A Case Report and Literature Review
Author(s): Valentina ZANIN, Marta ANGELINI, Lorenza DRIUL
Eclampsia is a life-threatening complication of pregnancy. It is defined as the occurrence of 1 or more generalized, tonic-clonic convulsions unrelated to other medical conditions in women with hypertensive disorder of pregnancy not attributable to other causes. The pathogenesis of eclamptic convulsions remains un- known. Eclampsia is considered an absolute contraindication to expectant conduct. The management of eclampsia primarily involves stabilizing maternal conditions, treating blood pressure and controlling seizures with magnesium sulfate. Definitive treatment for eclampsia is prompt delivery, however, this does not necessarily preclude induction and a trial of labor. The optimal mode of delivery in women with eclampsia remains controversial in the modern practice of obstetrics and gynaecology. We present a case of successful induction of labor in a patient with antepartum eclampsia.