What is the purpose of this test?
The HELLP syndrome blood test panel is a set of tests that are designed to diagnose HELLP syndrome, a potentially life-threatening complication that can occur during pregnancy. The condition is characterized by a combination of three main symptoms: hemolysis (the breakdown of red blood cells), elevated liver enzymes, and a low platelet count. The blood test panel is used to evaluate the levels of various substances in the blood, including red blood cells, liver enzymes, and platelets, in order to identify these symptoms and diagnose HELLP syndrome.
Early detection and treatment of HELLP syndrome is critical in preventing severe complications for both the mother and baby. These complications can include liver failure, kidney failure, blood clotting disorders, and even death. In addition to the blood test panel, healthcare providers may also perform other diagnostic tests, such as ultrasounds and fetal monitoring, to assess the health of the mother and baby and determine the best course of treatment. Overall, the HELLP syndrome blood test panel plays a crucial role in helping healthcare professionals identify and diagnose this serious complication, allowing for prompt treatment and the best possible outcome for both mother and baby.
The HELLP Syndrome Blood Test Panel includes:
Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Differential and Platelets:
- White Blood Cells (WBC) - The body's primary defense against disease and helps to fight infection.
- Red Blood Cells (RBC) - Responsible for carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide away from all cells. Iron deficiency will lower the RBC count.
- Hemoglobin - A chemical compound inside red cells that transports oxygen through the bloodstream to all body cells. Hemoglobin gives the red color to blood.
- Hematocrit - Measures the amount of space red blood cells take up in the blood. It is reported as a percentage.
- Neutrophils - Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cells and are created by the bone marrow to combat a wide range of inflammatory and infectious diseases.
- Lymphocytes - B-cells and T-cells are lymphocytes that fight bacteria and other pathogens in the blood. They are primarily found in the lymph system.
- Monocytes - Working alongside neutrophils, monocytes play a vital role in fighting infections and other diseases and clearing away dead or damaged cells.
- Eosinophils - White blood cells called eosinophils become activated in response to allergies and certain infections.
- Basophils - Basophils play a role in detecting infections early on, as well as aiding in wound healing and reacting to allergic responses.
- Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) - The average hemoglobin concentration within a red blood cell.
- Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) - The average hemoglobin concentration percentage within a red blood cell.
- Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) - The average size of red blood cells.
- Platelets - Blood cell particles associated with the forming of blood clots.
- Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) - Measures the amount of red blood cell variation in volume and size.
- Absolute Neutrophils - The absolute neutrophil count measures the number of neutrophils in your blood. Normal range is 2,500-7,000 per microliter. Counts outside this range indicate a possible condition.
- Absolute Lymphocytes - To calculate your absolute lymphocyte count, multiply your white blood cell count by the percentage of lymphocytes. This gives you the number of lymphocytes as an absolute number.
- Absolute Monocytes - The absolute monocyte count indicates the number of monocytes in the blood, helping to identify if the count is normal, high, or low.
- Absolute Eosinophils - Absolute eosinophil count measures the number of eosinophils in blood by multiplying the percentage of eosinophils in a complete blood count with the total number of white blood cells in the same count.
- Absolute Basophils - Absolute basophil count is calculated by multiplying the percentage of basophils by the total number of white blood cells in a blood sample.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP-14) - A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, or CMP, is a blood test that measures various substances in the blood, such as glucose, electrolytes, and proteins. It is usually done as part of a routine check-up or to monitor certain medical conditions. The results of a CMP can help doctors evaluate how well the liver, kidneys, and other organs are functioning, as well as detect any imbalances in the body's electrolyte and fluid levels.
- Glucose - Blood sugar level, the most direct test to screen for diabetes and also used in diabetes management.
- Kidney Profile
- Bun or Urea Nitrogen (BUN) - An indicator of kidney function.
- Creatinine, Serum - An indicator of kidney function.
- Bun/Creatinine Ratio - Calculated by dividing BUN by creatinine. This ratio can suggest conditions including dehydration or intestinal bleeding.
- Liver Panel
- Protein, Total - Assists in determining liver and kidney function and nutritional health.
- Albumin Serum - One of the major proteins essential for the healthy function of the liver and kidney.
- Globulin, Total - One of the major proteins that assist the blood to clot properly and also comprises infection-fighting antibodies.
- Albumin/Globulin Ratio - Calculated by dividing albumin by globulin. When paired with other test results, this ratio can assist in diagnosing various liver problems.
- Bilirubin, Total - Aids in detecting hepatitis, sickle cell, anemia, cirrhosis, alcohol, and drug abuse. High concentrations may result in jaundice.
- Alkaline Phosphatase - A protein vital in detecting bone disorders and liver disease.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST or SGOT) - An enzyme helpful in evaluating liver function. An elevated level is an indication of hepatitis.
- Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT or SGPT) - An enzyme helpful in identifying liver damage. Abnormalities may represent liver disease.
- Fluids & Electrolytes
- Sodium - One of the major salts in body fluid. Sodium is important in water balance and the electrical activity of nerves and muscles.
- Potassium - Helps to control the nerves and muscles.
- Chloride - Similar to sodium, it helps to maintain the body's electrolyte balance.
- Carbon Dioxide, Total - Used to help detect, evaluate, and monitor electrolyte imbalances.
- Calcium - A mineral essential for developing and maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It is also important for the normal function of muscles, nerves, and blood clotting.
Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH or LD) - A Lactate Dehydrogenase Blood Test is a simple blood test that measures the level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH or LD) enzyme in the blood. This test is usually done to check for tissue damage or to monitor certain medical conditions. It is a non-invasive and quick test that can be done in a laboratory or doctor's office. Elevated levels of LDH in the blood may indicate certain conditions such as liver disease, anemia, cancer, or heart attack.
Uric Acid - A Uric Acid Blood Test is a medical test that measures the amount of uric acid in your blood. Uric acid is a waste product that is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are substances found in foods and drinks. High levels of uric acid in the blood can lead to a condition called hyperuricemia, which can cause gout and kidney problems. The test is usually done to diagnose gout or to monitor the levels of uric acid in people who have kidney problems or are being treated for cancer.
Who benefits from this test?
The HELLP Syndrome Blood Test Panel is beneficial to:
- Pregnant women who show symptoms of preeclampsia
- Pregnant women who have a history of preeclampsia
- Pregnant women who have a history of HELLP syndrome
- Pregnant women with high blood pressure
- Pregnant women with liver abnormalities
- Pregnant women with low platelet counts
When should I order a HELLP Syndrome Blood Test Panel?
HELLP Syndrome Blood Test Panel can be ordered when a pregnant woman exhibits symptoms of severe preeclampsia or eclampsia. Some of the common symptoms are:
- High blood pressure
- Severe headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Upper abdominal pain
- Visual changes, such as blurred vision or seeing spots
- Decreased urine output
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue or weakness
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
It's important to note that not all women with HELLP Syndrome will have all of these symptoms, and some may not have any symptoms at all. If you have any concerns or questions, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider.
