a complication of severe preeclampsia or eclampsia.

(See also, hypertension, preeclampsia, eclampsia) An extension of the severe organ damage from preeclampsia and eclampsia has been named the HELLP syndrome. Liver and kidney damage, brain and nervous system involvement, and blood clotting problems become evident; symptoms may sometimes be noticed as early as the beginning of the third trimester of pregnancy. HELLP syndrome can lead to preterm labor and delivery, liver and kidney failure, and fetal and maternal death. HELLP is an acronym made up from several medical terms, and stands for: Hemolysis (blood cells break apart), ELevated liver enzymes, and Low Platelets (blood does not clot effectively).

Hemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes, Low Platelets Syndrome