[The HELLP syndrome--a challenge to the obstetrician and the intensive care therapist]

The HELLP-syndrome is a severe complication in late pregnancy. The etiology is still largely unknown. It is defined as a separate disease but also as a severe course of EHP-gestosis. It is mainly characterised by increased liver enzymes, a low platelet count, increased haemolysis and hypertension. According to primary organ affection, neurological symptoms and acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute renal insufficiency and/or upper abdominal complaints may occur. The only causal therapy is immediate caesarean section. Postoperative intensive care must be guaranteed. As a gentle anaesthetic method neuroleptanalgesia is recommended. Based on 7 of our own case reports, pathophysiology and therapy are discussed.