In plain words
HELLP syndrome is a rare but serious complication of pregnancy. HELLP stands for hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets. It is closely tied to , a condition of high blood pressure with signs of strain on the organs. It can develop before or after birth. Symptoms may include upper belly pain, nausea, headache, vision changes, or easy bruising and bleeding. Some people have blood pressure that is not very high. Blood tests are the main way it is found. The condition needs urgent hospital care, because it can affect the liver, the blood, and the baby. Severe symptoms are a reason to call emergency services or go in now.
The deeper version
HELLP syndrome is a variant of severe preeclampsia defined by microangiopathic hemolysis, with schistocytes and elevated lactate dehydrogenase, elevated liver enzymes, and a platelet count of 100,000 per microliter or less. The Tennessee classification (Sibai, 1990) separates complete from partial forms by thresholds for each component, and the Mississippi classification (Martin and colleagues, 1999) grades severity by platelet count. Management centers on stabilizing the person and timing delivery, along with corticosteroids for fetal lung maturity when appropriate and for seizure protection, as described in ACOG guidance (Practice Bulletin 222, 2020). The controversy concerns whether HELLP is a distinct entity or a severe point on the preeclampsia spectrum, how to time delivery at different gestational ages, and whether partial HELLP warrants the same response.
Where it comes up
- High blood pressure and preeclampsiaPregnancy: Your Body
- Postpartum preeclampsia: the warning signsPostpartum: Your Body
- Heartburn and refluxPregnancy: Your Body
- Itching that won't stop: cholestasisPregnancy: Your Body
What mothers here say about HELLP syndrome
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Sources
- Martin JN Jr and colleagues — The spectrum of the HELLP syndrome: a proposed classification system. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1990
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Practice Bulletin 222: Gestational hypertension and preeclampsia (2020)