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