HELLP Syndrome...A Pregnancy Complication

Stages of Pregnancy Slideshow

What is the HELLP syndrome? The answer is in the MedicineNet Medical Dictionary. The entry there reads:

HELLP syndrome: A syndrome featuring a combination of "H" for hemolysis (breakage of red blood cells), "EL" for elevated liver enzymes, and "LP" for low platelet count (an essential blood clotting element).

The HELLP syndrome is a recognized complication of preeclampsia and eclampsia (toxemia) of pregnancy, occuring in 25% of these pregnancies.

Common symptoms in women with the HELLP syndrome include a general feeling of feeling unwell (malaise), nausea and/or vomiting, and pain in the upper abdomen. Increased fluid in the tissues (edema) is also frequent. Protein is measurable in the urine of most women with the HELLP syndrome. Blood pressure may be elevated. Occasionally, coma can result from seriously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

The first order of treatment of HELLP syndrome is management of the blood clotting issues. If fetal growth is restricted, urgent delivery can be required. If the HELLP syndrome develops at or after 34 weeks of gestation or if the fetus' lungs are mature or mother's health is in jeopardy, urgent delivery is the treatment.

After delivery, the mother's status is monitored closely. The HELLP syndrome can be complicated by liver rupture, anemia, bleeding, and death. The HELLP syndrome can also develop during the early period after delivery of a baby.

Women with a history of HELLP syndrome are considered at increased risk for complications in future pregnancies.

For more, please visit the following MedicineNet.com areas:

• Pregnancy Planning Center
• FocusOnWomensHealth.com
• High Blood Pressure Center.