PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF ECLAMPSIA

Definition: Eclampsia is the occurrence of generalized convulsion and/ or coma in the setting of pre-eclampsia, with no other

neurological condition.

Predisposing factors Precipitating factors

>Chro nic hypertension >Lifestyle

>Diabetes milletus > Diet

(pregestational)

> Age, Sex

Sensitivity to Angiotensin II

Peripheral and vascular vasospasm caused by increased

cardiac output

Increased blood pressure

rerrepprepressure

Reduced blood supply

Poor placental perfusion Ischemia in liver and
Vasospasm of kidney Eyes
pancreas

Retinal constriction
Reduce fetal nutrient and
Increase Blood flow
oxygen supply s/sx: resistance
>epigastric pain S/sx:

>nausea >Blurred vision

Glomerular degeneration
Fetal death >Vomiting

>Elevated amylase and

creatinine ratio
Reversible blindness

Increase permeability of
glomerular membrane

Serum protein albumin and Decrease glomerular filtration

globulin escape in urine
 S/sx: Decrease urine output and
clearance of creatinine
Proteinuria (30ml/hr)

Fluid shift from

Increase Na reabsorption
intracellular to
extracellular

Increase water retention

S/sx: lower extremities

edema

Extreme edema (Generalized body edema)

Lungs Brain Heart

 S/Sx;
Pulmonary edema Cerebral edema Cardiac heart failure
Blurred vision

Severe headache

Cerebral congestion S/Sx;

Reflexes
(hyperactive)

Ankle clonus

Increase cerebral irritability

Seizures

If treated: If not treated:

Prevent fetal death FETAL DEATH AND

MATERNAL DEATH
Legend:

Signs and symptom present in patient

Book base signs and symptoms

References:

Adele. Maternal & Child Health Nursing: Care of the Childbearing and Childrearing Family. 5th Edition. Philippines: Lippincott

Williams & Wilkins, 2007.