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

Eclampsia, first described by Hippocrates 2,400 years ago, is the medical name for seizures during pregnancy.

From The Daily Beast

This operation is advocated by some obstetricians in certain cases of eclampsia and placenta prvia.

From Project Gutenberg

Poison was of course suspected; but her death was really caused by puerperal convulsions (eclampsia).

From Project Gutenberg

In eclampsia it diverts blood from the brain and depresses the motor neurons of the spinal cord.

From Project Gutenberg

Peterson reviewed 500 cases of cesarean section for eclampsia done by 259 operators in various countries.

From Project Gutenberg

Every pregnant woman should be watched to prevent eclampsia, if possible, because all are liable to this outcome.

From Project Gutenberg