Spontaneous rupture of the liver associated with pregnancy. A report of 5 cases.

A resume of the aetiology, precipitating factors, pathology and management of spontaneous rupture of the liver in pregnancy, with a report of 5 cases, is presented. Misdiagnosis and late treatment contribute to the high mortality rate. Pre-operative diagnosis is very rare despite the fact that this is a diagnosable syndrome in pregnant multiparas with evidence of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia, and right-sided hypochondrial or epigastric pain which rapidly progresses to peripheral vascular collapse, often with signs of intraperitoneal haemorrhage. An awareness of this syndrome and early active surgical management constitute the best and only chance of survival for these patients.