Preeclampsia/eclampsia with hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and thrombocytopenia

Data are presented to define a unique group of preeclamptic/eclamptic women with the findings of hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and a low platelet count. This syndrome is a variant of severe preeclampsia and may develop either antepartum or postpartum. A nonobstetric diagnosis such as gastrointestinal or hematologic disease is often made. When the patient presents with the hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet (HELLP) syndrome, supportive therapy is used and delivery expedited to improve maternal and fetal outcome.