HELLP syndrome in an economically disadvantaged Primigravida: A case of an atypical presentation with unconsciousness

Abstract

HELLP syndrome is a severe variant of preeclampsia in pregnancy. It is defined as hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count. This report displays the case of a 27-year-old Caucasian G1P0 female, previously healthy, who presented unconscious to the emergency room. Limited access to prenatal care and delayed follow-ups led to the late diagnosis of HELLP syndrome. This was highlighted with severe clinical and laboratory worsening. The patient was transfused with packed red blood cells (pRBCs) and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and underwent an urgent cesarean delivery. She was then transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) for proper monitoring, additional transfusions, and magnesium sulfate, steroids, and broad-spectrum antibiotics administration. Early recognition and multidisciplinary management of HELLP syndrome are important for maternal stabilization and efficient delivery. This case report emphasizes how critical routine prenatal care is for promptly identifying and managing high-risk pregnancies to evade adverse consequences.