Hellp syndrome may it be a separate entity?

HELLP Syndrome

HELLP Syndrome

• may it be a separate entity?

HELLP, a syndrome characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzyme levels and a low platelet count, is an obstetric complication that is frequently misdiagnosed at initial presentation. Many investigators consider the syndrome to be a variant of preeclampsia,

• HELLP, a syndrome characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzyme levels and a low platelet count, is an obstetric complication that is frequently misdiagnosed at initial presentation. Many investigators consider the syndrome to be a variant of preeclampsia,

Epidemiology and Risk Factors

• HELLP syndrome 0.2 to 0.6 % of all pregnancies.

• Preeclampsia 5 to 7 % of all pregnancies.

Etiology and Pathogenesis

• The hemolysis in HELLP syndrome is a microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. Red blood cells become fragmented as they pass through small blood vessels with endothelial damage and fibrin deposits.

• The peripheral smear may reveal spherocytes, schistocytes, triangular cells and burr cells.

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