Amniotic fluid embolism

Amniotic fluid embolism occurs rarely but is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in the United States. The risk of death associated with this syndrome is 60% to 80% with half of survivors suffering long-term neurologic disability. The pathophysiology of amniotic fluid embolism is poorly understood. A review of the largest case series to date concluded that the physiologic and hematologic manifestations bear a greater resemblance to septic and anaphylactic shock than to any embolic phenomenon. Care of the patient who suffers amniotic fluid embolism is supportive. To date, no therapeutic interventions have been found to improve survival.