Frontiers in Surgery (Nov 2021)

Liver Bleeding Due to HELLP Syndrome Treated With Embolization and Liver Transplantation: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

  • Valentina Messina,
  • Daniele Dondossola,
  • Daniele Dondossola,
  • Maria Chiara Paleari,
  • Gianluca Fornoni,
  • Daniela Tubiolo,
  • Patrizia Vergani,
  • Roberto Rona,
  • Giorgio Rossi,
  • Giorgio Rossi

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fsurg.2021.774702
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 8

Abstract

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Background: Liver bleeding secondary to haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count (HELLP) syndrome is uncommon, but a life-threatening peripartum condition that needs a prompt multidisciplinary approach.Case Presentation: In this study, we presented a case of 28-year-old pregnant woman, who was presented to the obstetrics department with signs of preeclampsia and foetal growth restriction. An emergency caesarean section was performed, and the patient developed a HELLP syndrome complicated by spontaneous liver rupture. After radiological and surgical procedures, liver failure became evident and liver transplantation was successfully performed. The patient and her daughter are now alive.Conclusions: Despite the rarity of this disease, liver complications due to HELLP syndrome must be properly diagnosed and treated given the gravity of the possible evolution in young women. After diagnosis, the patients must be treated in specialised centres with gynaecological, liver surgery, and transplant skills.

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