Ascites in preeclampsia: A case report

Abstract

Preeclampsia complicates approximately 2-8% of all pregnancies and is an important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Ascites in preeclampsia is a rare complication. We here are presenting a case of a 28-year primigravida with 34 weeks of gestation, a known case of preeclampsia, that was referred to our institute from a primary health centre in view of impending eclampsia. Massive ascites is an unusual complication of preeclampsia which may lead to maternal respiratory compromise, which calls for active termination of the pregnancy within 24–48 hours as it cannot be cured by medical treatment. Its rarity may be due to under-reporting. The incorporation into clinical practice of evaluating the amount of ascites in patients with preeclampsia might prompt the obstetrician to more intensive and more frequent maternal and fetal surveillance to avoid maternal and fetal complications.