Amniotic Fluid Embolism

OVERVIEW

An amniotic fluid embolism is a rare obstetric emergency where fetal cells/hair/debris enter the mother’s blood stream via the placental bed.

WHY IS IT A PROBLEM?

This condition can lead to heart/lung collapse and massive bleeding (coagulopathy).

WHAT MAKES US SUSPECT IT?

Risk Factors:

Advanced maternal age, gravida ≥ 5 (liver births or still births), cesarean or instrument delivery, placenta previa, placenta abruption, preeclampsia

Initial Presentation:

HOW DO WE TREAT IT?

Respiratory/hemodynamic support can be used to stabilize the patient.

A transfusion may or may not be needed.

CLINICAL WORKUP

Autopsy can reveal the presence of swirls of fetal squamous cells/mucin in the pulmonary artery branches.

ARCHIVE OF STANDARDIZED EXAM QUESTIONS 

This archive compiles standardized exam questions that relate to this topic.

 

Page Updated: 09.30.2016