HELLP syndrome

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Disease Overview

A life-threatening condition that can potentially complicate pregnancy. It is named for 3 features of the condition: H emolysis, E levated L iver enzyme levels, and L ow P latelet levels. It typically occurs in the last 3 months of pregnancy (the third trimester) but can also start soon after delivery. A wide range of non-specific symptoms may be present in women with HELLP syndrome. Symptoms may include fatigue; malaise; fluid retention and excess weight gain; headache; nausea and vomiting; pain in the upper right or middle of the abdomen; blurry vision; and rarely, nosebleed or seizures. The cause of HELLP syndrome is not known, but certain risk factors have been associated with the condition. It is most common in women with preeclampsia or eclampsia. If not diagnosed and treated quickly, HELLP syndrome can lead to serious complications for the mother and baby.The main treatment is to deliver the baby as soon as possible, even if premature. Treatment may also include medications needed for the mother or baby, and blood transfusion for severe bleeding problems.

Synonyms

PEE1
PREECLAMPSIA/eclampsia 1
PREG1
hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count
hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets in pregnancy
hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, lowered platelets
hemolysis-elevated liver enzymes-low platelet count syndrome
hemolysis-elevated liver enzymes-low platelets syndrome
hypertension, pregnancy-induced
toxaemia of pregnancy
toxemia of pregnancy

GARD Disease Summary

The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

View report

Orphanet

Orphanet has a summary about this condition that may include information on the diagnosis, care, and treatment as well as other resources. Some of the information and resources are available in languages other than English. The summary may include medical terms, so we encourage you to share and discuss this information with your doctor. Orphanet is the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research and the Health Programme of the European Union.