HELLP Syndrome
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HELLP syndrome is an acronym for a severe variant of preeclampsia. It is believed to occur as a result of fragmented red blood cells passing though damaged vessels that contain fibrin. These fibrin deposits cause a series of events leading to obstruction of vessels and consequent impaired blood flow to the liver. Monitoring of CBC and LFTs is imperative in early diagnosis of this syndrome.
HELLP syndrome is an acronym for hemolysis (H), elevated liver enzymes (EL), and low platelets (LP). It is a severe variant of preeclampsia. The incidence of HELLP syndrome is highest among whites, multiparous women, and those diagnosed with preeclampsia. It occurs in only 2-16% of all pregnancies, compared with 5-7% for preeclampsia.