Hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets
HELLP (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelets) Syndrome is a pregnancy-related condition that affects the blood and liver. It’s an acute and severe condition that requires prompt treatment. Expecting mothers with eclampsia and preeclampsia have an increased risk of developing HELLP Syndrome. The most common signs and symptoms of HELLP Syndrome include chest pain, pain in the upper or middle of the abdomen, blurry vision, inflammation, and throwing up.
Elevated liver enzymes typically occur during the later stages of pregnancy. However, in some cases, mothers suffer from HELLP syndrome soon after giving birth. The elevated liver enzymes for women with HELLP Syndrome are secondary in nature, caused by obstruction of hepatic blood flow by fibrin deposits in the sinusoids. The obstruction in the liver results in periportal necrosis. In severe cases, intrahepatic hemorrhage, hepatic rupture, and subscapular hematoma formation are common.
Women with HELLP Syndrome expect full recovery if they receive prompt treatment and management. Elevated liver enzymes and other symptoms can improve significantly after a healthy delivery. All symptoms related to HELLP Syndrome typically go within days or weeks after delivery.
