Answer: HELLP is an acronym for a syndrome of hemolysis, elevated liver function, and/or low platelets. HELLP syndrome is thought to be a subcategory of severe preeclampsia. Patients may or may not have other signs of preeclampsia. HELLP syndrome often has a rapidly accelerating downhill course. Most clinicians deliver infants expeditiously regardless of the gestational [...]

Answer: In the past there have been advocates for other agents, particularly phenytoin. However, a randomized controlled trial in women with eclampsia clearly favored MgSO4 over phenytoin for recurrent seizure prophylaxis. Reference: Witlin AG, Sibai BM: Magnesium sulfate therapy in preeclampsia and eclampsia. Obstet Gynecol 92:883-889, 1998. Medline Similar articles Full article