Optic nerve ultrasound for fluid status assessment in patients with severe preeclampsia

Abstract

Background and objective: There are no data on usefulness of optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) as a marker of patient’s fluid status in preeclampsia. The objective was to examine potential correlation between ONSD and lung ultrasound estimates of extravascular lung water in severe preeclampsia.

Materials and methods: Thirty patients with severe preeclampsia were included. Optic and lung ultrasound were performed within 24 hours from delivery. ONSD was measured3 mm behind the globe. Lung ultrasound Echo Comet Score (ECS) was obtained using the 28-rib interspaces technique. Pearson’s correlation analysis was used to assess the relationship between ONSD and ECS (p < 0.05 significant). 

Results:  Median ONSD was 5.7 mm (inter-quartile range (IQR) 5.2-6.0 mm). Median ECS was 16 (IQR 9-25). Statistically significant correlation was found between ONSD and ECS (r²=0.287; p=0.002).

Conclusion: Significant correlation between ONSD and ECS suggests optic ultrasound could be used for assessing fluid status and guiding peripartum fluid therapy in patients with severe preeclampsia.