Abstract
Background: We present the case of very early onset pre-eclampsia, possibly aggravated by liquorice consumption. Case: An 18-year-old healthy primigravida presented with high blood pressure and proteinuria at 18 weeks gestation. She had a strong family history of pre-eclampsia and was consuming considerable amounts of liquorice. A diagnosis of severe pre-eclampsia/hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count was confirmed. The pregnancy was terminated. Extensive investigation ruled out underlying diseases and autopsy revealed a normal fetus. In three consequtive pregnancies, she developed milder forms of pre-eclampsia. Conclusion: In healthy women with a familial/genetic susceptibility for pre-eclampsia, liquorice consumption may aggravate the course of the disease.
Acknowledgements
Dr Johann H. Johannsson is thanked for reviewing pathology slides from the placenta and placental bed biopsies.
Declaration of Interest
The authors report no conflicts of interest.