Which laboratory findings might you expect in a patient with HELLP syndrome?

In a patient with HELLP syndrome, elevated liver enzymes greater than twice the normal levels is a hallmark finding. HELLP syndrome, which stands for Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelets, is a severe form of preeclampsia. The elevation of liver enzymes indicates liver dysfunction and damage due to elevated blood pressure and ischemia, which are common in this condition.

When monitoring a patient suspected of having HELLP syndrome, significant elevations in enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) provide essential diagnostic information. An increase in liver enzymes is a direct consequence of hepatic involvement in HELLP syndrome, reflecting the severity of the condition and the need for immediate medical intervention.

The other options would not accurately represent the typical laboratory findings associated with HELLP syndrome. For instance, an increased platelet count would not be expected, as thrombocytopenia is one of the criteria for diagnosis. Elevated LDH could occur, but a low liver enzyme finding contradicts the known criteria for HELLP syndrome and would not be compatible with the severe liver dysfunction associated with this condition. Lastly, a normal peripheral blood smear would not be typical, as hemolysis is common,