Diffusion-weighted images and vasogenic edema in eclampsia.
BACKGROUND
In eclampsia, it is mandatory to recognize specific cerebrovascular complications before initiation of treatment. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a new technique that differentiates between cerebral infarction and hypertensive encephalopathy with vasogenic edema.


METHODS
A 23-year-old primigravida developed eclampsia at 29 weeks' gestation. Focal neurologic signs and neuroimaging findings by computed tomography and MRI were consistent with acute infarction or vasogenic edema. Diffusion-weighted MRI did not show an abnormal signal, indicating vasogenic edema. Control of the severe hypertension without anticoagulation therapy was begun. After delivery, the woman's neurologic abnormalities disappeared.


CONCLUSIONS
Diffusion-weighted MRI differentiated between cerebral infarction and vasogenic edema, helping in the management of eclampsia.
Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
T
T
Kanki
K
K
Tsukimori
F
F
Mihara
H
H
Nakano
D000328:Adult; D001929:Brain Edema / Q000473:pathology*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004461:Eclampsia / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis