HELLP
Medical abbreviation · Obstetrics & Gynecology
| Stands for | Hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
HELLP stands for Hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets, an obstetrics & gynecology abbreviation.
Severe complication of pregnancy, usually considered a variant of preeclampsia, with red cell breakdown, liver injury and low platelets. It often presents with right upper abdominal or epigastric pain, nausea and malaise in the third trimester or after delivery.
Example: Epigastric pain at 33 weeks, platelets 68,000, AST 310, LDH 900: HELLP; magnesium and delivery planning.
Usage notes
The name was coined by obstetrician Louis Weinstein in 1982. Blood pressure is not always very high, so the condition can be mistaken for gastroenteritis or gallbladder disease. Delivery is the definitive treatment, with magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures. Complications include liver hematoma, kidney injury and DIC.
Related abbreviations
More obstetrics & gynecology abbreviations
- G/P – Gravida/para
- GA – Gestational age
- GBS – Group B Streptococcus
- GCT – Glucose challenge test
- GSM – Genitourinary syndrome of menopause
- GTPAL – Gravida, term, preterm, abortions, living
- HG – Hyperemesis gravidarum
- HRT – Hormone replacement therapy
- HSIL – High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion
- ICP – Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
- ICSI – Intracytoplasmic sperm injection
- IOL – Induction of labor
See all 89 obstetrics & gynecology abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.