Amniotic fluid embolus in the absence of disseminated intravascular coagulation and respiratory failure: A diagnostic challenge

Abstract

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a potentially catastrophic complication unique to pregnancy, characterised by its poorly understood pathophysiology and diverse clinical manifestations. We present the case of a 37-year-old G1P1 mother, who developed sudden cardiovascular collapse in the immediate post-partum period. We detail the diagnostic uncertainty surrounding the condition and use this case to illustrate the clinical spectrum of AFE presentation.

Keywords

• Amniotic
• amniotic fluid embolism
• embolus
• maternal collapse