Preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome as an obstetric emergency

Preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome are multi-systemic hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. A causative treatment is not yet available. The obstetrician has to choose between the risk of prolongation of pregnancy for mother and fetus on the one hand and the hazard of prematurity on the other, when iatrogenic delivery is considered. As the clinical severity and progression of both diseases is very difficult to predict, an emergency situation can develop rapidly and unexpectedly. In this scenario a good interdisciplinary cooperation between obstetricians and intensive care physicians ensures an optimal outcome for the pregnant woman. This article gives an insight into both diseases and the clinical management.