HELLP syndrome — Haemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelets — is a life-threatening complication of pregnancy, usually occurring in the third trimester or immediately post-partum. It occurs in approximately 0.2–0.6% of all pregnancies and in up to 20% of severe pre-eclampsia cases. Without prompt diagnosis and management — including delivery of the baby, which is the definitive treatment — HELLP syndrome can cause liver rupture, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), acute kidney injury, placental abruption, and maternal death. When clinicians fail to recognise and act on HELLP syndrome, a claim may be available.
Red flags that should prompt investigation for HELLP
- Epigastric or right upper quadrant pain in pregnancy — a critical warning sign
- Nausea and vomiting in the third trimester
- Headache and visual disturbance in a woman with pre-eclampsia
- Abnormal blood results: elevated liver enzymes, thrombocytopaenia, haemolysis on blood film
- Shoulder tip pain (referred diaphragmatic irritation from liver capsule distension)
Common negligence scenarios
- Epigastric pain dismissed as heartburn or indigestion without blood testing
- Blood results showing abnormal liver enzymes or low platelets not acted upon urgently
- HELLP syndrome in the post-partum period not recognised — post-natal women developing HELLP are particularly vulnerable to delayed diagnosis
- Delay in delivering the baby once HELLP is diagnosed, allowing further clinical deterioration
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim if HELLP syndrome was misdiagnosed as indigestion?
Yes — if epigastric pain in a pregnant woman was not investigated with blood tests for HELLP, and the failure to diagnose caused additional harm.
Can I claim if HELLP syndrome was diagnosed but delivery was delayed?
Yes — if the decision to deliver was made later than a competent obstetrician would have made it given the clinical picture.