[Loss of sight in the postpartum period]

Vision problems in case of pre-eclampsia or Hemolysis, Elevated Liver, Low Platelets syndrome (HELLP) occur in 25-40% of the cases. Ablatio retinae as a complication occurs in only 0,1-2%.

This article describes the case of a healthy 31-year-old woman who gave birth to her first child. A few hours after delivery she experienced vision loss. HELLP was diagnosed. Because of persistent vision loss combined with headache, the ophthalmologist and neurologist were consulted. A bilateral ablatio retinae as a complication of HELLP was diagnosed. Headache was most likely due to the side effect of nifedipine tablets, tension headache or a symptom of HELLP. Vision loss recovered spontaneously within a few weeks.

Ablatio retinae due to preeclampsia or HELLP is very rare. For all concerned health care providers it is essential to pay attention to vision loss being the first symptom of possible acute underlying diagnosis postpartum.