HELLP SYNDROME: A BRIEF REVIEW

Abstract

HELLP is an abbreviation of hemolysis (H), elevated liver enzyme (EL), and low platelet count (LP) which is a serious complication in pregnancy and also described as a severe form of preeclampsia and which is also associated substantial maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality which is usually misdiagnosed at initial presentation. The patients with HELLP syndrome may present complain of malaise (90%), epigastric or right upper quadrant pain (90%), and nausea or vomiting (50%) and the healthcare should be alert to provide possible diagnosis. Hypertension and protein urea may be absent or inappreciable. The pathophysiology of HELLP syndrome is exactly imprecise. HELLP syndrome is also caused due to coagulation cascade activation leading to platelets consumption is due to adherence onto a damaged and activated endothelium. Laboratory investigation includes a low platelet count and increased hepatic enzymes. HELLP syndrome patients require plasmapheresis and corticosteroids therapy.

Keywords: HELLP syndrome, preeclampsia, thrombocytopenia, management, corticosteroids.