gynecology and obstetrics
Amniotic Fluid Embolism
Symptoms and Signs of Amniotic Fluid Embolism
Amniotic fluid embolism usually manifests during and shortly after labor and delivery. The first sign may be sudden cardiac arrest. Other patients suddenly develop dyspnea and have tachycardia, tachypnea, and hypotension. Overview of Respiratory Failure , with significant cyanosis, hypoxia and pulmonary crackles, often quickly follows. There is high risk of mortality. Coagulopathy manifests as bleeding from the uterus and/or sites of incisions and venipuncture. Uterine hypoperfusion causes uterine atony and fetal distress. 