[Nine cases of HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets]

HELLP syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes and Low Platelets) was described by Weinstein in 1982. It has a high maternal and perinatal morbi-mortality rate. We undertook this study to evaluate perinatal outcome in patients with HELLP syndrome. Patients with HELLP syndrome were identified in a retrospective study between March 1998 and March 2001 at the Hospital Privado de Córdoba. Maternal and neonatal variables were analyzed. Nine patients with HELLP syndrome were identified (incidence 2.3@1000). Mean maternal age was 24.5 (15-36) years. Five patients were nuliparous. The mean gestational age was 34.5 weeks (29-40). The main symptom was epigastric pain (77.7%). In seven women delivery was made by cesarean section. Three patients had postpartum HELLP syndrome. Three patients had difficult control hypertension; one had eclampsia and another one had disseminated intravascular coagulopathy with acute renal failure and died. Three women needed blood products transfusions. The average admission time was 4.4 days. There were six preterm infants (75%). Mean birth weight was 2030 g (736-3200). Four neonates had Apgar score < 7 at the first minute, all had > 7 at 5 minutes. Three neonates had alimentary disorders, one had hypoglucemia and another hyaline membrane disease, patent ductus arteriosus, sepsis and thrombocytopenia. The high maternal and perinatal morbi-mortality of HELLP syndrome requires management in a centre where intensive maternal and neonatal care are available.