[HELLP syndrome, an unusual form of pregnancy toxicosis]

The high maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality associated with severe preeclampsia--eclampsia still have a remarkable significance. An unique form of preeclampsia--eclampsia is called HELLP syndrome which means hemolysis (H), elevated liver enzymes (EL), and low platelet count (LP). Authors demonstrate a patient treated in the intensive care unit and recovered completely from HELLP syndrome, and give a summary of the clinical findings and management principles of this life threatening complication. Authors emphasize the importance of the knowledge of HELLP syndrome for all physicians dealing with pregnant patients, considering that the fast established diagnosis and proper management can be life-saving.