الفهرس 
Definition and pathogenesis of HELLP syndrome and epidemiology of the syndromeOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
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Abstract
Despite the development of tertiary care facilities intensive care and advanced blood banking techniques, maternal and neonatal deaths continue to occur in association with HELLP syndrome.
HELLP syndrome characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzyme levels and low platelet count. The syndrome has been considered a variant of preeclampsia, but it can occur on its own or in association with preeclampsia. It is an obstetric complication that is frequently misdiagnosed at initial presentation.
The pathogenesis of HELLP syndrome isn’t well understood. It’s attributed to abnormal vascular tone, vasospasm and coagulation defects. The syndrome seems to be the final manifestation of some insult that leads to microvascular endothelial damage and intravascular platelet activation that leads to a cascade that is only terminated with delivery.
The vague nature of the presenting complaints can make the diagnosis of HELLP syndrome frustrating to physicians. Approximately 90% of patients present with generalized malaise, 65% with epigastric pain, 30% with nausea and vomiting, and 31% with headache, any pregnant woman who presents with malaise or a viral-type illness in the third trimester should be evaluated with a complete blood cell count and liver function tests.
Two classification systems are used for HELLP syndrome. The first is based on the number of abnormalities that are present. In this system, patients are classified as having partial HELLP syndrome (one or two abnormalities) or full HELLP syndrome. The other classification is based on platelet count: class I, less than 50, 000 per mm3 (50x109 per L); class II, 50, 000 to less than 100, 000 per mm3 (50 to 100 x 109 per L); class III, 100, 000 to 150, 000 per mm3 (100 to 150 x 109 per L).