MEGALOBLASTIC PANCYTOPENIA MIMICKING HELLP SYNDROME IN LATE PREGNANCY: A CASE REPORT

Introduction: Hemolysis, Elevated liver enzyme, low platelet (HELLP) syndrome is often noted as a complication of preeclampsia but can occur without this association as well. Severe form often requires termination of pregnancy. Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in vegetarian population and can mimic HELLP syndrome. Case Summary: We present an interesting case which was initially thought to be HELLP syndrome based on the clinical presentation and patient was planned for induction of labour, but later on it was found out to be a case of Vitamin B12 deficiency on the basis of Lab findings. Patient responded well to the B12 supplementation and unjustified termination of pregnancy was avoided. Conclusion: This case illustrates an interesting clinical misdiagnosis of HELLP syndrome in an overt megaloblastic anemia. An elaborated workup with clinical suspicion should be made for megaloblastic anemia in such condition. Keywords: HELLP syndrome, Megaloblastic Anemia, Vitamin B12 deficiency, Pregnancy