A case of aggravation of hemolytic anemia, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count syndrome after delivery

Background Hemolytic anemia, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count (HELLP) syndrome is a severe obstetric complication which usually resolves in most patients after delivery. Methods We report a rare case of aggravation of HELLP syndrome after delivery. Results The patient underwent the treatment for HELLP syndrome, including glucocorticoid therapy. The symptoms of HELLP syndrome reappeared and became more severe than before the termination of pregnancy. The patient also had severe and persistent hypoproteinemia, hyponatremia and hypocalcemia. Conclusions HELLP syndrome is an acute and critical obstetric syndrome which can have heterogeneous presentations and variable prognosis. We should be fully aware of the diverse clinical characteristics of this condition. Chin Med J2011;124(8):1261-1263