Is a serious and potentially life threatening complication of pregnancy.

Typically is classified as a type of pre-eclampsia

Can occur late in pregnancy and even following childbirth

Can be seen as well in those with eclampsia

Can damage liver and other organs

Abbreviation of findings

-    H –   Hemolytic anemia
-    EL -   Elevated Liver enzymes
-    LP -   Low Platelet count

Typically the individual has been having some elevated blood pressure and pre-eclampsia may have been considered.

Symptoms

-    Headache
-    Fatigue
-    Nausea
-    Vomiting
-    Body aches
-    Abdominal pain
-    Edema

Causes

-    Activation of coagulation cascade
-    Destruction of red blood cells

Blood tests are essential in this diagnosis

Classifications

Severe -  platelet below 50,000

Moderate -  platelet between 50,000 and 100,000

Mild -  platelet over 100,000

Treatment

Delivery of the child

Bed rest prior to delivery may be an option

Magnesium sulfate -  prevention of seizures

Antihypertensive medications

Steroid medications – to mature the lungs of the fetus