Incidence and Risk Factors of HELLP Syndrome in Thai Pregnant Women with Severe Pre-eclampsia

Abstract

Objectives To determine the incidence and risk factors of HELLP syndrome in pregnant Thai
women with severe pre-eclampsia and to compare pregnancy outcome.
Design Cross-sectional study.
Subject A total of 255 pregnant women with severe pre-eclampsia, >28 weeks of gestation,
who delivered at Siriraj Hospital between January 2005 and June 2007.
Materials and Methods The medical records were reviewed to determine the incidence of HELLP
syndrome. Characteristics regarding current pregnancy and delivery and maternal and
neonatal outcomes were extracted.
Results The incidence of HELLP syndrome was 12.5%. Women with HELLP syndrome
were significantly older, more likely to be multiparous and delivered at lower gestational age
(p<0.05). Placental abruption and birth asphyxia significantly increased among women with
HELLP syndrome (p<0.05).
Conclusion HELLP syndrome was found in 12.5% of severe pre-eclampsia pregnant women in
our institute. Risk factors were old maternal age and preterm gestation.