Amniotic Fluid Embolism

Question 1

How common is amniotic fluid embolisation?

Answer 1

2 per 100,000 deliveries

Question 2

Pathophysiology of amniotic fluid embolism?

Answer 2

Amniotic fluid enters the maternal bloodstream

Question 3

What does amniotic fluid embolism resembles?

Answer 3

Commonly resembled anaphylaxis - foetal tissue causes massive immune response in the mother

Question 4

Mortality rate of amniotic fluid embolism?

Answer 4

20%

Question 5

4 risk factors for amniotic fluid embolism

Answer 5

1) Caesarean
2) Increasing maternal age
3) Induction of labour
4) Multiple pregnancy

Question 6

When does amniotic fluid embolism generally occur?

Answer 6

Delivery (or post-partum)

Question 7

Neurological sequelae of amniotic fluid embolism

Answer 7

Seizures

Question 8

Haematological sequelae of Amniotic Fluid Embolism

Answer 8

Coagulopathy and haemorrhage

Question 9

Management of AFE

Answer 9

Supportive

Question 10

To note for CPR in pregnancy (2)

Answer 10

C-section should be performed ASAP (improves maternal mortality) if there is no response to CPR within 4 minutes

lie the patient on the left lateral side