Liver pathology within the scope of HELLP syndrome

Abstract

Liver pathology is one of the main features of HELLP syndrome and develops on the basis of a generalised activation of intravascular coagulation. Fibrin deposits and haemorrhagic necrosis predominantly develop in the periportal areas and may eventually lead to subcapsular haematomas or even rupture of the liver. While the compensated form of activation of intravascular coagulation, which is diagnosed by a decrease in antithrombin III and an increase in thrombin-antithrombin III complex (TAT) and the appearance of fibrin, monomers and D-dimers, is found in almost all cases of HELLP syndrome, the decompensated form of intravascular coagulation with prolonged bleeding time (PT, PTT) and drop in fibrinogen is found only in the most severe forms. The development of a decompensation of coagulation correlates with the appearance of severe complications such as liver haematoma, abruptio placentae, renal failure and pulmonary oedema. The best prophylaxis against the development of life-threatening complications is early diagnosis and termination of pregnancy after stabilisation of the maternal condition, consisting of magnesium sulphate infusion, antihypertensive treatment with dihydralazine or calcium antagonists, steroids etc. Severe complications of HELLP syndrome have occasionally been observed in the postpartum period. As prophylaxis against postpartal worsening of HELLP syndrome, curettage of the uterus and continuation of the treatment with calcium antagonists and dexamethasone have been recommended.