A Registry of Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in Pregnant Epileptic Women from Pakistan

Abstract

Introduction: An important issue in female patients with epilepsy is the effects of Epilepsy and AEDS on both the mother and fetus with various complications during pregnancy and peripartum period. Pregnancy may also affect the seizure control in variable ways. In order to address these issues large national and multinational registries are required especially in developing world. Purpose of this registry is to collect local demographics and also plan the strategies required for the improvement in reproductive health services. Methodology: This is a prospective, cross-sectional, observational ongoing analysis, with follow up of pregnant women with epilepsy (WWE) who presented in neurology outpatient clinic. The demographic data on disease and the AEDS were recorded in a structured Performa. Data was analyzed using standard statistical software SPSS version 20. Results: There were 65 patients with mean age 27.5 ± 5.02. Most common diagnosis was IGE followed by genetic focal epilepsy. Most common Maternal complications was vaginal bleed (n=6) followed by abortion, hyperemesis gravidarum eclempsia, oligohydromnias (n=1) each. Fetal distress was observed in 3 cases, and 1 case of each of the premature birth, IUGR, IUD and CDH were seen. Most common drug used was Lamotrigene followed by Levateracetem while polytherapy was used by 15 patients. Conclusion: Awareness about the impact of epilepsy and AEDs on the maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnancy is important. Improvement in reproductive health services in such patients with good liaison between neurology and obstetrical department should be emphasized to improve the outcome.