KETANSERIN, A 5-HT2 SEROTONERGIC RECEPTOR ANTAGONIST, COULD BE USEFUL IN THE HELLP-SYNDROME

Objective: To assess the value of a serotonergic receptor antagonist in the management of the HELLP syndrome. Methods: An open, noncontrolled study over a 1-year period (1990-1991) in a tertiary center. We evaluated the effects of ketanserin, a serotonin receptor antagonist, on 15 women suffering from the HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count). Main Outcome Measures: Antenatal evolution of platelet count and blood pressure. Results: The platelet count (mean +/- SD) before delivery increased from 38.513 +/- 19.551 X 10(9)/L to 133.133 +/- 68.576 X 10(9)/L after treatment (P < 0.0001). Systolic blood pressure (mean +/- SD) fell from 157 +/- 19 mm Hg to 132 +/- 11 mm Hg (p < 0.0031), and the diastolic from 99 +/- 8 mm Hg to 87.5 +/- 10 mm Hg ( p < 0.0008). Severe epigastric pain was also decreased. Conclusion: Our experiences indicate that ketanserin could be useful in the management of this serious complication of pregnancy.