Fetomaternal outcome in preeclampsia and eclampsia with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome

Preeclampsia and eclampsia are hypertensive disorders of pregnancy associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a neurological complication observed in these conditions, yet its impact on fetomaternal outcomes remains underexplored. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between PRES and fetomaternal outcomes in women with preeclampsia and eclampsia.

This prospective cohort study enrolled 64 singleton pregnant women beyond 20 weeks of gestation with preeclampsia and eclampsia having neurological symptoms. Participants underwent clinical evaluation and radiological assessment, including non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Maternal outcomes, including high dependency unit (HDU)/intensive care unit (ICU) stay, intubation, mode of delivery and maternal mortality. Fetal outcomes, i.e., stillbirth, prematurity, and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay, were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed to compare outcomes between PRES and non-PRES groups.

The majority (92.18%) of participants were unscheduled and (56.2%) were primigravida. PRES was diagnosed in 62.5% of cases, predominantly associated with antepartum eclampsia (47.5%). Neurological symptoms such as headache (85.9%) and blurring of vision (68.8%) were common in PRES cases. Cesarean section rate was significantly higher in PRES group (75%), along with adverse outcomes including increased HDU/ICU stay, intubation, postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), abruption, maternal mortality, stillbirth, prematurity, fetal growth restriction (FGR), meconium-stained liquor (MSL), and NICU stay, which were observed significantly higher in women with PRES (p < 0.001) and low Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration (APGAR) scores (p < 0.05). However, no significant association was observed between PRES and early neonatal death (ENND).

PRES is associated with adverse fetomaternal outcomes in women with preeclampsia/eclampsia, including higher cesarean section rate and increased maternal and neonatal morbidity. Early recognition and management of PRES are crucial for improving outcomes in these high-risk pregnancies. Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to validate these findings and explore potential interventions.