Pravastatin for prevention of HELLP syndrome: A case report

Medicine (Baltimore). 2017 Oct;96(42):e8229. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000008229.

Abstract

Rationale: Pravastatin has emerged for prevention and treatment of preeclampsia; no reports are available on pravastatin and HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets) syndrome.

Patient concerns: The first pregnancy necessitated termination of pregnancy at gestational age (GA) 20+5 for HELLP. Intrauterine fetal death at GA 22+5 occurred in the second pregnancy, whilst on temporizing management of HELLP.

Diagnoses: Severe, recurrent early-onset HELLP syndrome.

Interventions: In her fourth pregnancy, pravastatin was commenced at GA 13.

Outcomes: The course of pregnancy was uncomplicated, and a healthy, appropriate for gestational age fetus was delivered at term.

Lessons: Pravastatin may be effective in prevention of HELLP. The hepatic uptake may be of particular advantage.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Gestational Age
  • HELLP Syndrome / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / administration & dosage*
  • Live Birth
  • Pravastatin / administration & dosage*
  • Pregnancy
  • Recurrence
  • Term Birth
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Pravastatin