Purpose: To report the antepartum presentation of Purtscher-like retinopathy and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets (HELLP) syndrome that resulted in severe permanent visual loss.
Design: Interventional case report.
Methods: A 25-year-old primigravida patient at 38.5 weeks gestation presented with severe bilateral loss of vision. Immediate hospitalization with complete evaluation, urgent medical treatment, and cesarean section was performed.
Results: Ophthalmoscopic evaluation showed bilateral Purtscher-like retinopathy. Laboratory studies revealed elevated liver enzymes, thrombocytopenia, and evidence of intravascular coagulation consistent with HELLP syndrome. Despite the successful delivery of a healthy baby, the patient developed permanent visual loss.
Conclusion: Purtscher-like retinopathy with permanent visual loss can occur antepartum in patients with HELLP syndrome.