Decreased hepatic perfusion in patients with HELLP syndrome.

A total of 20 women with HELLP syndrome (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets), and 20 gestational age-matched healthy controls participated in this study which was conducted at Assiut University Maternity Hospital, Egypt. Dual hepatic perfusion was assessed by evaluation of hepatic artery blood flow and portal vein blood flow. The total liver blood flow was taken as the sum of flow volumes in the common hepatic artery and portal vein as assessed by Doppler ultrasound. The total liver blood flow decreased significantly in women with HELLP syndrome, compared with controls.