Liver pathology in third trimester of pregnancy

Abstract

Introduction. Liver disease can cause significant morbidity in both pregnant women and their infants. We discuss clinical conditions that are seen only in pregnant women and affect the liver: from Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (0.5% - 1.5% prevalence), to the more frequent condition of preeclampsia (10% prevalence) and its severe form; haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and a low platelet count syndrome (12% of pregnancies with preeclampsia) - HELLP syndrome. The pathogenesis is not completely known, there are theories. Anyway all of them suggest the changes in the maternal body due to the change of pregnancy hormones. These conditions affect not only the mother but also the baby. It is important to make an early diagnosis and prevent the outcomes with simple medication.