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Overview :
Amniotic fluid embolism can be a devastating syndrome with
disseminated intravascular coagulation, respiratory failure, circulatory
collapse and sudden death. Prompt recognition and aggressive therapy can be
lifesaving.
Risk factors for amniotic fluid embolism:
(1) older age
(2) multiparity
(3) intense uterine contractions, either physiologic or drug
induced
(4) abdominal trauma
(5) cesarean section
(6) uterine rupture
(7) high cervical tear
(8) premature placental separation
(9) placental abruption
(10) intrauterine fetal demise or fetal distress
Most cases (80%) occur during labor, but it can occur either
before labor or after delivery. About 25% of patients will die within 1 hour of
onset.
The diagnosis of amniotic fluid embolism should be
considered when a pregnant woman with one or more of these risk factors
suddenly deteriorates with respiratory distress, bleeding or shock.
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