DIAGNOSTIC AND TREATMENT CHALLENGE: AMNIOTIC FLUID EMBOLISM

Abstract

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is an infrequent but clinically challenging pregnancy complication with high maternal and neonatal mortality. The most common risk factors for AFE are older maternal age, multiple pregnancies, male neonates, or comorbid pregnancy conditions. Although the pathophysiological mechanisms of AFE are not yet fully understood, it is thought to develop due to the mother’s amniotic fluid-induced intense humoral response, which may cause respiratory and circulatory collapse and/or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) syndrome. If AFE is suspected, resuscitation, respiratory and circulatory stabilisation, correction of coagulopathy, and bleeding control should be initiated. It is important to differentiate AFE from other acute pregnancy conditions to ensure the most effective treatment strategy. The article reviews the etiological and pathophysiological mechanisms of the condition’s development, clinical presentation, and diagnostic and treatment recommendations.