Eclampsia is characterized by which of the following?

• A. Hypertension with edema only
• B. Proteinuria without seizures
• C. Seizures during a pregnancy or shortly after giving birth
• D. Visual disturbances without seizures

Answer: (C)

Eclampsia is defined by the occurrence of seizures in a pregnant woman who has signs of preeclampsia, meaning it occurs during pregnancy or shortly after giving birth. The defining event that makes this condition eclampsia is the convulsions themselves, not just high blood pressure or proteinuria. So the best description is seizures during pregnancy or the postpartum period. Hypertension with edema and proteinuria describe preeclampsia, not eclampsia, and visual disturbances can accompany severe preeclampsia but do not define an eclamptic episode. In practice, recognizing seizures in this setting triggers urgent stabilization, magnesium sulfate to prevent further seizures, blood pressure management, and expedited delivery when possible.