HELLP syndrome

noun

: a serious disorder of pregnancy of unknown etiology that usually occurs between the 23rd and 39th weeks, that is characterized by a great reduction in the number of platelets per cubic millimeter, by hemolysis, by abnormal liver function tests, and sometimes by hypertension, and that in the most severe cases requires delivery of the fetus before term

Word History

Etymology

hemolysis elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count

Dictionary Entries Near HELLP syndrome

Cite this Entry

“HELLP syndrome.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/HELLP%20syndrome. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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