Ocular fundus changes in pre-eclampsia and eclampsia in a rural set-up

Abstract

Context: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is one of the common complications met with pregnancy and contributes significantly to maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. Aims: To grade the ocular fundus changes in patients of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. Settings and Design: Hospital-based prospective observational study. Materials and Methods: Hospital-based prospective observational study conducted over a period of 2 years. One hundred patients of pregnancy having pre-eclampsia and eclampsia were included. Statistical analysis used: Chi-square test. Results: Out of 100 cases, 32 (32%) had mild pre-eclampsia while 50 (50%) had severe pre-eclampsia. Eighteen (18%) patients had eclampsia. Out of 100 cases examined in this study, 54 presented with ocular symptoms and 46 were asymptomatic. Arteriolar attenuation was the most common retinal change observed and it was seen in 44 (44%) cases. Exudative retinal detachment was seen in 7 (7%) cases and macular edema was present in 12 (12%) cases of PIH. Conclusions: Cases of severe pre-eclampsia and of eclampsia showed higher grades of retinal changes. Visual disturbances and symptoms like headache were commonly associated with retinal changes. It is essential to examine each and every patient of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia for ocular manifestations, which should be helpful for obstetrician in the management of patient.