Clinical Manifestations of Preeclamptic Pregnant Women—Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition marked by high blood pressure and organ damage, primarily affecting the liver and kidneys. Preeclampsia can progress rapidly, leading to serious complications. Regular prenatal care and timely reporting of symptoms are crucial for early detection and management, safeguarding both maternal and fetal well-being. This study aimed to assess the clinical manifestations of preeclamptic pregnant women. Methods and materials: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital and Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2011 to June 2012. The study included 50 pregnant women with preeclampsia, selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using MS Office tools. Results: The mean age was 25.8 ± 4.4 years. Majority were preterm (82%), 42% were primigravida, and 58% were multigravida. Proteinuria distribution: 50% mild, 20% moderate, 30% severe. Preeclampsia severity: 64% mild, 36% severe. Mean serum ferritin, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels were 124.5 ± 24.8 ng/ml, 10.9 ± 0.8 g/dl, and 32.4 ± 1%, respectively. Severe preeclampsia had a mean ferritin of 192.8 ng/ml, mild preeclampsia had 86.1 ng/ml. Conclusion: The prevalence of preeclampsia is notably high in preterm pregnancies, with more than one-third of preeclamptic cases progressing to severe forms. Serum ferritin levels may be considered a potential predictor of preeclampsia.