A Case of Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage Complicated by HELLP (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes, and Low Platelets) Syndrome

Abstract

A diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a distinct form of pulmonary hemorrhage that originates from the pulmonary microcirculation. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is one cause of DAH. Although HELLP syndrome associated with DIC can cause DAH, there are no published case reports that the authors are aware of. We report the case of a pregnant woman with HELLP syndrome who developed DAH. Because pregnant women with HELLP syndrome can develop DAH as a form of ARDS, a bronchoalveolar lavage may be used to make a differential diagnosis of this lung manifestation.