What Is HELLP Syndrome?
Reviewed: Dr. Mera
4. Low platelet count
When there is a loss of continuity on the lining of one of our blood vessels, platelets are the main cells in charge of the first step of hemostasis, or the process of stopping the bleeding, by forming a primary plug on the affected site.
As mentioned above, the damaged and activated endothelium in HELLP syndrome can lead to the activation of the coagulation cascade. As a consequence, there can be increased consumption of platelets as they adhere to this endothelium. Thus, patients with HELLP syndrome can exhibit thrombocytopenia, which is characterized by abnormally low levels of platelets (thrombocytes) in their blood.
Advertisement
