HELLP Syndrome Presenting as Malaria in a Postmenopausal Invitro Fertilisation Conceived Pregnancy - A Case Report

Abstract

Abstract HELLP syndrome is a pregnancy disorder associated with severe maternal morbidity and mortality. The syndrome can present nonspecific symptoms and the diagnosis may be difficult to be established resulting in delay of treatment. We present a 57-year-old postmenopausal, chronic hepatitis B positive who achieved live birth of twins following donor-oocyte in vitro fertilization (IVF). She had preeclampsia with Haemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count (HELLP) syndrome complication which masqueraded as malaria in pregnancy. HELLP syndrome may present as malaria in pregnancy especially in malaria endemic areas so a high index of suspicion and proper laboratory investigations will usually confirm the diagnosis so as to prevent unnecessary delay in management.