Three in One: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, HELLP Syndrome, and Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review
Introduction Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem autoimmune disease commonly affecting women of reproductive age. Its overlap with HELLP syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes, and Low Platelet Count) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) during pregnancy is rare and presents diagnostic and…
2025 1,145 reads 0 citations
Case Reports
Three in One: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, HELLP Syndrome, and Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review
IntroductionSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem autoimmune disease commonly affecting women of reproductive age. Its overlap with HELLP syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes, and Low Platelet Count) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) during pregnancy is rare and presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to shared clinical and laboratory features. This report describes a case of pre-existing SLE complicated by the concurrent occurrence of SLE flare, HELLP syndrome, and APS during pregnancy.
Case presentationA 26-year-old female with known SLE presented with right upper quadrant abdominal pain and hypertension two days following a mid-trimester abortion at 22 weeks of gestation. Laboratory evaluation revealed thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes, and hemolysis, consistent with HELLP syndrome. The presence of lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibodies, in conjunction with her obstetric history, supported the diagnosis of APS. The patient was treated with high-dose corticosteroids and anticoagulation, resulting in significant clinical improvement.
Literature reviewA review of literature highlights the consistent presentation of nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and hypertension in patients with overlapping SLE, HELLP syndrome, and APS. Laboratory findings often reveal thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes, and hemolysis, reflective of underlying microangiopathic processes. Therapeutic strategies typically involve corticosteroids and anticoagulation, with plasmapheresis reserved for severe cases.
ConclusionThe coexistence of SLE flare, HELLP syndrome, and APS during pregnancy is a rare and complex condition that requires careful evaluation. Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for achieving favorable outcomes.
Keywords Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) HELLP Syndrome Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) Pregnancy Complications All subjects
Barw Medical Journal. 2025;3(4):82–85