Computed tomography of the brain in eclampsia
Article Abstract:
Eclampsia is a life-threatening complication of pregnancy involving high blood pressure, fluid retention, and protein in the urine, which then progress to convulsions and coma. The maternal mortality rate is between 13.9 percent and 30 percent, depending on the medical facilities available. The most common cause of death is cerebral hemorrhage, or bleeding in the brain. One study reported that swelling in the brain, cerebral edema, was present in 18 percent of the patients who died from eclampsia. However, the incidence of cerebral edema present during eclampsia is not well understood. Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic tool that creates detailed cross-sectional images of internal structures. To help explain the cause of convulsions and the incidence of abnormal changes in brain, CT scans of normal pregnant women (10 women), women with high blood pressure (15 women) and eclamptic patients (44 patients) were compared. In eclamptic patients, all CT scans were performed within 24 hours of the initial convulsion; in 12 of these women they were done within one hour. Of the 44 women with eclampsia, 26 had a normal CT scan. Abnormal findings included: three patients with evidence of brain hemorrhage or brain blood clot; six patients showing areas of decreased density of the brain tissue known as white matter; and nine patients with cerebral atrophy and enlarged ventricles of the brain. The ventricles of eclamptic patients and patients with high blood pressure appeared larger than the ventricles of normal patients. In conclusion, cerebral edema is not as common in eclamptic patients as previously thought. Therefore, CT scanning is not recommended as a routine examination of the brain in women with eclampsia, unless there is a prolonged coma or signs that indicate a cerebral hemorrhage. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0029-7844
Year: 1990
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What a kick
Article Abstract:
Soccer player John Harkes has carved his niche in the field of soccer. Harkes was voted one of the top 100 soccer players by the 'World Soccer' magazine in 1992. He was also once a member of the US National Team. Harkes hopes to lead DC United to its 3rd championship in 1998.
Publication Name: Washingtonian
Subject: Travel, recreation and leisure
ISSN: 0043-0897
Year: 1998
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New ouchless medical tests
Article Abstract:
New painless tests for breast cancer, osteoporosis, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, stroke risk and heart risk prediction have been developed. A new way of monitoring the blood sugar levels of diabetics without the need for a finger stick will be available soon.
Publication Name: Prevention
Subject: Sports and fitness
ISSN: 0032-8006
Year: 1993
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