Magnetic resonance tomography in eclampsia

Eclampsia is a rare but severe complication during the course of a pregnancy. The CT-findings at the brain are well known. Reports on MRT-findings are limited, however, especially in German literature. We describe the MRT picture of the cerebral changes caused by eclampsia and discuss the advantages of MRT in comparison with CT. The use of contrast agents with MRT shows breakdown of blood-brain barrier but does not provide any information of therapeutical consequences and should be avoided during pregnancy. An early and targeted use of MRT in any case of unclear or suspicious neurological symptoms during pregnancy is recommended. MRT supports differential diagnosis regarding non pregnancy-related cerebral disease and can be helpful for therapy planning in cases of preeclampsia. Additionally, MRT offers the possibility to control the effect of therapy with regard to brain damage. (orig.)