Neurologic aspects of eclampsia.

Eclampsia continues to be a significant cause of maternal and fetal death throughout the world. Neurologists have a specific role to play in the diagnosis and management of patients who have eclampsia, especially those who have recurrent seizures, raised intracranial pressure, and coma. Postpartum patients may be admitted to a neurology service when they present to the emergency department with seizures. The cornerstone of treatment has been blood pressure control and magnesium sulfate with its antivasospastic effect. Should this fail, antiepileptic drugs of proved efficacy, such as diazepam and phenytoin, can be used. Recent studies reveal genetic and mitochondrial defects in eclampsia, but further investigation is warranted to determine the complex underlying pathophysiologic interplay and the optimum prophylactic and therapeutic management.