Pregnancy-related Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Associated with Herpes Simplex Virus-2 Infection: A Diagnostic Dilemma

Abstract

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a severe inflammatory disorder characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of lymphocytes and histiocytes with hemophagocytic activity in the bone marrow. To our knowledge, there have been a few reported cases of pregnancy-related HLH. This case highlights the importance of considering HLH in a pregnant woman along with other diagnoses, such as HELLP (which stands for hemolysis, elevated liver enzyme levels, and low platelet levels) syndrome and hemolytic anemias. It points to the challenges of diagnosing and managing pregnancy-related HLH due to a similarity in presentation with other conditions.