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HELLP syndrome |
| Definition: |
| A group of symptoms that occur in pregnant women who have (H) hemolytic anemia, (EL) elevated liver enzymes, and (LP) low platelet count. |
| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
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HELLP syndrome occurs in approximately 10% of pregnant women with pre-eclampsia or eclampsia. It may occur long before a pregnancy reaches term (for example, HELLP at 30 weeks gestation). HELLP may occur without an associated elevation of blood pressure. Frequently, the syndrome is misdiagnosed as hepatitis, gallbladder disease, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, or thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. |
| Symptoms: |
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| Signs and tests: |
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Examination shows upper abdominal tenderness, especially in the right upper quadrant. The liver may be enlarged. |
| Treatment: |
| Delivery of the infant is essential because liver function rapidly deteriorates in this condition. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| High neonatal death (20 to 25%), usually because of prematurity, is associated with this condition. |
| Complications: |
| Hemorrhage may occur within the mother's liver. Permanent liver damage may occur if delivery is delayed. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call your health care provider or obstetrician if symptoms occur during pregnancy. HELLP syndrome can rapidly progress to an emergency condition! |
| Prevention: |
| Early and continuing prenatal care to facilitate early identification and treatment of conditions such as pre-eclampsia and eclampsia may help to prevent the disorder. |
Reviewed By: Catherine S. Bradley, M.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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