Approach to HELLP syndrome in intensive care unit (seven case report) [Yo?un bakimda HELLP sendromuna yaklaşim (yedi olgu sunumu)]

Abstract

HELLP Syndrome is characterised by hemolysis, elevated serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase and low platelet count. The pathogenesis of HELLP Syndrome remains unclear. We presented the follow up of 7 HELLP syndrome cases in the intensive care unit between 2001-2003. Patients were between 18-28 years of age and gestational ages were between 26-38 weeks. HELLP syndrome occured in the antepartum period in 3 patients and in the postpartum period in the 4 patients. Three patients with Glasgow Coma Score between 3-4 died. Six cases required mechanical ventilation therapy. CT revealed brain edema in 3 patients. ARDS was diagnosed in 3 patients and acute renal failure developed in 2 patients. When respiratory functions and laboratory values returned to normal, 4 patients were transferred to obstetrics and gynecology ward. Because severe complications may develop in HELLP syndrome, we think that the patients must be observed in ICU until the clinical and laboratory findings recover.