[Clinical aspects of amniotic fluid embolism]

At the Clinic Obstetrics and Gynecology, Allgemeines Krankenhaus Celle, two cases of amniotic fluid embolism were observed. The first case showed the two characteristic phases of the disease (cardiopulmonary shock followed by severe disseminated intravascular coagulopathy). During the onset of the cardiorespiratory symptoms, the patient underwent cesarean section and a healthy infant was born. The mother survived. The other patient died of cardiopulmonary arrest. Cesarean section was carried out immediately. At first, the infant was heavily depressed, but further development was normal. Inspite of great advances in intensive care amniotic fluid embolism still is considered to be a very dangerous event with 86% maternal mortality.