HELLP syndrome

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Preeclampsia

The main treatment is to deliver the baby as soon as possible, even if premature, since liver function in the mother gets worse very quickly. Problems with the liver can be harmful to both mother and child.

When the disease is not treated early, up to 25% of women develop serious complications. Without treatment, a small number of women die. The death rate among babies born to mothers with HELLP syndrome varies and depends on things such as birth weight. (See also: Prematurity.)

The mother's liver may hemorrhage (bleed). Permanent liver damage, which can be fatal, may occur if delivery is delayed.

See your obstetrician immediately, call the local emergency number (such as 911), or get to the emergency room if the symptoms above occur during pregnancy.

Review Date: 11/08/2006
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.