Cerebrovascular accident complicating severe preeclampsia: A rare case report

Stroke is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality during pregnancy and puerperium. The most important risk factor of stroke in pregnancy is preeclampsia and eclampsia. The occurrence of cerebrovascular event in preeclampsia is often associated with a higher likelihood of mortality if not managed appropriately and in a timely fashion. A 32-year-old multiparous patient at 34 weeks 5 days of gestation presented to our hospital with 9 h history of headache, inability to speak, and inability to move the right side of her body. On examination, she was aphasic, had elevated blood pressure, right-sided hemiplegia, and significant proteinuria. A diagnosis of severe preeclampsia with cerebrovascular accident was made. She was jointly managed with the cardiologist and physiotherapist. She was commenced on antihypertensive and magnesium sulphate and was delivered of a live baby boy weighing 2.0kg through an emergency lower segment cesarean section. Pregnancy-related stroke is rare. There should be a high index of suspicion among caregivers, and multidisciplinary management is the key.