A 25-year-old woman at 30 weeks gestation presented to the emergency department complaining of severe right upper quadrant abdominal pain. The patient was in her usual state of health, until this morning when she started complaining of severe abdominal pain associated with nausea and vomiting. Temperature is 36.7 C (98.1 F), blood pressure is 175/120 mm Hg, and pulse is 120/min. BMI is 35 kg/m2. Physical examination shows right upper quadrant abdominal tenderness. Aspartate aminotransferase (SGOT) is 230 U/L and alanine aminotransferase (SGPT) is 250 U/L. Imaging shows hepatic subcapsular hematoma. This patient is most at risk for which of the following complications?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: HELLP Syndrome is defined as the combination of hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets. HELLP syndrome may result from severe preeclampsia. It may lead to ischemia and hemorrhage in the liver causing right upper quadrant abdominal pain associated with nausea and vomiting. Seizures, renal failure, and DIC could result from widespread endothelial dysfunction.

A 25-Year-Old Woman at 30 Weeks Gestation Presented to the Emergency