Amniotic Fluid Embolism as a Cause For Maternal Collapse

Chris Durey, Colin Hutchison. Royal Alexandra Hospital, Paisley.

Introduction 

 

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare but serious complication of pregnancy, occurring in approximately 1.7 in 100,000 pregnancies1, with significant morbidity and mortality. It is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality worldwide.

 

AFE should be considered in cases with sudden maternal collapse secondary to hypotension or hypoxaemia, and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC). There is no current diagnostic assay available, therefore it remains a diagnosis of exclusion.