![Sample our Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing & Allied Health journals, sign in here to start your FREE access for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5944/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Medicine-Dentistry-Nursing-Allied-Health.jpg"})
Abstract
Objective: To assess the value of a serotonergic receptor antagonist in the management of the HELLP syndrome.
Methods: An open, noncontrolled study over a 1-year period (1990–1991) in a tertiary center. We evaluated the effects of ketanserin, a serotonin receptor antagonist, on 15 women suffering from the HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count).
Main Outcome Measures: Antenatal evolution of platelet count and blood pressure.
Results: The platelet count (mean ± SD) before delivery increased from 38.513 ± 19.551 ± 109/L to 133.133 ± 68.576 ± 109/L after treatment (p < 0.0001). Systolic blood pressure (mean ± SD) fell from 157 ± 19 mm Hg to 132 ± 11 mm Hg (p < 0.0031), and the diastolic from 99 ± 8 mm Hg to 87.5 ± 10 mm Hg (p < 0.0008). Severe epigastric pain was also decreased.
Conclusion: Our experiences indicate that ketanserin could be useful in the management of this serious complication of pregnancy.