HELLP syndrome in pregnancies below 26th week

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Hematology
• Immunology

Background:

• HELLP syndrome is a severe pregnancy complication.
• Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are associated with thrombotic events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between aPL antibodies and early-onset HELLP syndrome.
• To identify clinical and laboratory predictors of HELLP syndrome.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of HELLP syndrome cases before 26 weeks gestation.
• Updated verification of clinical and laboratory data.

Main Results:

• Early HELLP syndrome occurred in women with preeclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension and/or aPL antibodies.
• Cases with aPL antibodies showed low platelets, AT III, lymphopenia, high CRP, and placental infarcts.
• Resistant blood pressure surges preceded HELLP syndrome onset.

Conclusions:

• Early HELLP syndrome in pregnancy may indicate aPL antibodies and Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS).
• Sudden blood pressure surges are a clinical precursor to HELLP syndrome.
• Low platelet count characterizes HELLP syndrome in women with APS.