Which lab values would support a diagnosis of HELLP syndrome?

The diagnosis of HELLP syndrome is characterized by a specific set of laboratory findings that relate to liver function and platelet counts. When evaluating the correct choice, the clue lies in the elevation of liver enzymes, specifically AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase).

For a diagnosis of HELLP syndrome, it is critical that the AST and ALT levels are significantly elevated, specifically more than twice the upper limit of normal. This alteration reflects hepatic cell damage and dysfunction, which are hallmarks of this condition.

While other options mention various combinations of platelet counts and enzyme levels, they do not align with the criteria established for HELLP syndrome. For instance, a high platelet count or normal liver enzyme levels would not indicate this syndrome, as HELLP is specifically associated with low platelet counts and elevated liver enzymes. Thus, recognizing that elevated AST and ALT levels are essential for diagnosing HELLP is key to understanding why this choice correctly supports the diagnosis.