[Importance of thrombocytopenia for the management of HELLP syndrome: a report of 104 cases].

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the importance of thrombocytopenia in the management of HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count).

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This retrospective study included all patients with HELLP syndrome treated in the three departments of the Pellegrin Maternity Hospital in Bordeaux, between January 1993 and December 2001. One hundred and four patients were included and were divided into two groups according to the severity of thrombopenia: group 1 (platelet count<50000/mm(3)) and group 2 (50000<platelet count/mm(3)<100000).

RESULTS

In group 1 complications occurred in 79% of cases and thrombocytopenia put patients at-risk for serious or life-threatening bleeding complications mainly in this group.

CONCLUSION

It is crucial to class patients according to severity of thrombocytopenia, on admission. Termination of pregnancy should be considered for patients included in group 1. The other patients are best managed conservatively (depending on gestational age).