[The HELPP syndrome--a severe complication of pre-eclampsia. A presentation of 19 cases from 1983 to 1990].

Between 1983 and 1990, HELLP syndrome was diagnosed in 19 of 201 patients with preeclampsia. In addition to the characteristic changes in laboratory values, severe edema and proteinuria were found in almost all cases. Upper abdominal pain was the most common subjective symptom and, together with a reduced thrombocyte count, was often a first sign of HELLP syndrome. In some cases blood pressure was only slightly increased. Maternal and infant morbidity were significantly increased. Premature termination of labor was usually necessary, in most cases due to maternal pathology. The incidence of intrauterine dystrophy and premature delivery far exceeded the norm. Early detection of HELLP syndrome is crucial, and interdisciplinary cooperation is a key factor in achieving this goal.