Failure to Diagnose HELLP Syndrome

Failure to diagnose HELLP syndrome constitutes medical malpractice when healthcare providers miss clear warning signs, fail to order appropriate tests, or misinterpret symptoms – things that a reasonably competent physician would have recognized and prevented.

Families affected by the misdiagnosis of this condition are entitled to medical compensation, brought forth through a medical malpractice claim

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Missed HELLP Syndrome Caused Injuries?

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What Is HELLP Syndrome?

HELLP Syndrome is an advanced variation of hypertension and preeclampsia that can seriously jeopardize a pregnancy. This complication is characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count.[1] HELLP Syndrome shares many early symptoms with other complications, and must therefore be tested extensively.

The term HELLP is derived from the main characteristics of this condition:[2] 

HHemolysis
EL Elevated Liver enzymes
LPLow Platelets

This is a life-threatening condition; with a maternal mortality rate of up to 24%, and a fetal mortality rate of up to 37%. It also increases the likelihood of other pregnancy complications such as:[1]

  • Blood clotting issues – up by 15% to 62%
  • Placental separation – 11% to 25%
  • Post-birth hemorrhage – 12.5% to 40%
  • Kidney failure – up by 36% to 50%

How is HELLP Syndrome Diagnosed?

HELLP Syndrome occurs in up to 0.9% of pregnancies; with 7 in every 10 occurring in the third trimester, and the rest occurring within 48 hours of delivery.[1] This condition is more likely in sisters or children of previous HELLP patients.[3]

Doctors must conduct screenings promptly. When testing for HELLP Syndrome, medical providers would look to perform the following:[1]

  1. Blood count and smear
  2. Liver tests (AST, ALT, bilirubin)
  3. Kidney function (creatinine)

Failure to prescribe these tests at the right time may constitute medical malpractice.

HELLP Syndrome and Medical Negligence

In a medical malpractice claim, legal counsel works hard to establish that certain medical lapses directly cause injuries. These lapses may be committed during diagnosis, treatment, or even documentation. Some examples include (but are not limited to):

  • Dismissing symptoms as normal pregnancy complaints
  • Not ordering complete lab workup when symptoms present
  • Overlooking abnormal lab results
  • Delayed delivery when indicated
  • Not transferring to a higher level of care
  • Inadequate patient education about warning signs
  • Failure to conduct a follow-up concerning lab results
  • Incomplete documentation of symptoms/interventions

These are only some possible grounds for a medical malpractice claim. Consult a specialized lawyer as soon as possible to get your case evaluated.

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HELLP Mismanaged by a Negligent Doctor?

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Potential Long-term Impairments

Should a case of HELLP Syndrome be mismanaged, several long-term impairments may be contracted by either mother or child. Such impairments include:

For Infants

  • Cerebral palsy
  • Learning disabilities
  • Visual and hearing impairments
  • Neurological disorders
  • Physical issues
  • Chronic organ dysfunction

For Mothers

  • Permanent kidney failure
  • Liver dysfunction
  • Heart complications
  • Chronic blood disorders
  • Neurological deficits

In birth injury cases, compensation ensures that an injured child is provided with all the necessary support for their growth and development. Injured mothers are also to be allowed to return to their healthiest state. For actual compensation figures, please refer to our previous wins.

Speak to a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Today

At the Porter Law Group, our team of proven medical malpractice lawyers delivers ideal results. We take pride in helping families rebuild after unfavorable circumstances. We operate on a contingency basis – meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case. Through this approach, we can better support families during their times of need.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, please reach out to us for a non-obligatory free case evaluation. You can also contact us at 833-PORTER9 or  info@porterlawteam.com to schedule a consultation.

Last Updated on 
November 25, 2024
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