"HELLP" stands for the three major elements of the syndrome: (H)
hemolysis, (EL) elevated liver enzymes, and a (LP) low platelet
count. Hemolysis involves the destruction of red blood cells.
HELLP is a rare, but life-threatening medical condition that
occurs in 0.2% to 0.6% of pregnancies and in 10% to 20% of women
with preeclampsia. Though the cause of HELLP is not yet fully
understood, it can lead to lung and heart failure, permanent
liver and kidney damage, internal bleeding, stroke, and other
serious complications in the mother. It can also cause early
placental detachment from the uterine wall (placenta abruptio),
which can lead to fetal death. Other serious complications for
the fetus include intrauterine growth restriction and
respiratory distress syndrome. Approximately 1% of women with
HELLP syndrome and 7 to 20% of their babies die as a result of
HELLP. Although any pregnant woman can get HELLP syndrome, some
are at higher risk, including those who: - Are at the extreme
ends of the age group (over a