eclampsia

[ ih-klamp-see-uh ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a form of toxemia of pregnancy, characterized by albuminuria, hypertension, and convulsions.

eclampsia

/ ɪˈklæmpsɪə /

noun

1. pathol a toxic condition of unknown cause that sometimes develops in the last three months of pregnancy, characterized by high blood pressure, abnormal weight gain and convulsions Compare pre-eclampsia
2. another name for milk fever (in cattle)

Derived Forms

• ecˈlamptic, adjective

Other Words From

• ec·lamptic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of eclampsia¹

1855–60; < New Latin < Greek éklamps ( is ) sudden development ( ek- ec- + lámp ( ein ) to shine + -sis -sis + -ia -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of eclampsia¹

C19: from New Latin, from Greek eklampsis a shining forth, from eklampein, from lampein to shine

Example Sentences

For instance, no one disputes that a death from eclampsia, a dangerous condition provoked by pregnancy, qualifies as a maternal death and is properly included when calculating the mortality rate.

From Science Magazine

Research has shown that young teens have a greater risk of developing postpartum blood loss and eclampsia, a condition marked by seizures and high blood pressure.

From Salon

More was made of what the coroner listed as complications related to childbirth: among them, eclampsia, which results in seizures that can lead to coma and stems from high blood pressure during pregnancy.

From Seattle Times

It can lead to a condition called eclampsia, which can lead to seizures and death.

From New York Times

It said she was found in bed in a “secured residence” with possible complications including respiratory distress and eclampsia.

From Seattle Times