Anesthetic Management of a Case of HELLP Syndrome

A 40-year-old woman with severe toxemia of pregnancy was diagnosed as having HELLP syndrome after emergency cesarean section. Despite the administration of diuretics and sufficient infusion, anuria was observed during and after the operation. Six hours after the operation, when diastolic blood pressure decreased to the normal range, the anuria improved. We speculate that hypovolemia and vasospasms may be the causes of this anuria. Because of its rapid onset and severe consequences, HELLP syndrome should be kept in mind when women with severe toxemia of pregnancy complain of abdominal symptoms.