Deep tongue laceration following eclampsia, Cesarean section, repair and blood transfusion- A case report

Abstract

Eclampsia still remains an issue of serious concern in Sub Saharan Africa. Preeclampsia is the precursor to eclampsia, in which hypertension and proteinuria are present, with or without oedema1-2. This is a case of Mrs SK, a 21year old Primigravida who was unsure of her last menstrual period, but she was said to be 9 months pregnant; she developed generalized tonic clonic convulsions with each episode lasting about 30 seconds. She sustained a V-shaped laceration affecting lower one third of the tongue with clots of blood on the affected area. A diagnosis of antepartum eclampsia was made. She was admitted into the eclamptic ward and resuscitated. Intravenous infusion and Magnesium sulphate were commenced using Zuspan Regimen. She had an emergency caesarean section and was delivered of a fresh still birth female baby who weighed 3.0kg. The lacerated tongue was repaired by maxillofacial surgeon and she was transfused with 2 pints of blood.Eclampsia is the leading cause of maternal mortality in developing countries. Recognizing the features of preeclampsia and instituting appropriate measures is mandatory in order to prevent the progression of the disease to eclampsia with its associated complications.