Ophthalmic Manifestations in Preeclampsia and Their Impact on Maternal and Fetal Outcomes: A Prospective Descriptive Study (Code-T0215)

Introduction: Preeclampsia is a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, affecting 8-10% of pregnancies in India. While its systemic complications are well-documented, ophthalmic manifestations are often overlooked. Retinal changes, hypertensive retinopathy, and visual disturbances can serve as indicators of disease severity and fetal outcomes. This study evaluates the prevalence of ophthalmic changes in preeclampsia and their correlation with maternal and fetal complications.

Aim and Objectives:

1. To analyse the ophthalmic manifestations among patients with preeclampsia.
2. To determine the fetomaternal outcome of patients with preeclampsia having ophthalmic manifestations.

Methods: A prospective descriptive study was conducted at BMCRI, Bengaluru, including 202 preeclamptic inpatients. Detailed obstetric and ophthalmic examinations were performed. Retinal changes were graded using the Keith-Wagner-Baker classification. Patients were followed until discharge, with maternal and fetal outcomes recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with p<0.05 considered significant.

Results: Ophthalmic manifestations were observed in 30.19% of cases, with blurred vision being the most common symptom. Hypertensive retinopathy was present in 27.72% of patients. A significant correlation (p<0.001) was found between severe preeclampsia and advanced retinopathy grades. Fundus changes were also linked to adverse fetal outcomes, including low birth weight, fetal distress, and increased NICU admissions.

Conclusion: Ophthalmoscopic screening in preeclamptic patients is crucial for early detection of vascular changes. Retinal findings can serve as a predictor of disease severity and adverse perinatal outcomes, aiding in timely intervention.

Keywords: Preeclampsia, hypertensive retinopathy, maternal outcome, fetal outcome, ophthalmic changes, pregnancy complications.