Amniotic Fluid Embolism Flashcards
1
Q
What is AFE
A
when fetal cells/ amniotic fluid enters the mothers bloodstream and stimulates a reaction
2
Q
How common is AFE and what are the outcomes?
A
High mortality
1 in 50,000
3
Q
What is the clinical presentation of AFE?
A
The majority of cases occur in labour , though they can also occur during caesarean section and after delivery in the immediate postpartum.
Symptoms include: chills, shivering, sweating, anxiety and coughing.
Signs include: cyanosis, hypotension, bronchospasms, tachycardia. arrhythmia and myocardial infarction.
4
Q
How is AFE diagnosed?
A
Clinical diagnosis of exclusion
5
Q
How is AFE managed?
A
Critical care unit by a multidisciplinary team, management is predominantly supportive
