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Recurrent Cardiac Arrests Due to Amniotic Fluid Embolism
Munsef Barakat1, Ans Alamami2, Ali Ait Hssain3
1Internal Medicine Residency Program, Medical Education, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, QAT.
Cureus
|April 4, 2022
Summary
Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare pregnancy complication with high mortality. Early recognition and supportive care, including managing disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), are crucial for patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Critical Care Medicine
- Hematology
Background:
- Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare, life-threatening obstetric emergency.
- Risk factors include advanced maternal age, multiparity, cesarean delivery, and placenta previa.
- Clinical presentation involves respiratory distress, seizures, and cardiovascular collapse.
Observation:
- This case report details a patient experiencing sudden cardiac arrest post-cesarean delivery for placenta previa.
- The patient developed disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and massive postpartum hemorrhage.
- Treatment involved massive blood transfusion, platelets, fresh frozen plasma (FFP), and tranexamic acid.
Findings:
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a key diagnostic marker differentiating AFE from similar conditions.
- The Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine provides diagnostic criteria based on clinical and laboratory findings.
- Prompt identification and supportive management are essential for improving outcomes in AFE.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical importance of recognizing DIC in AFE management.
- Effective treatment strategies involve aggressive supportive care and management of coagulopathy.
- Further research into AFE pathogenesis and treatment is warranted to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality.
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