Rare but severe complication of pregnancy in which amniotic fluid enters maternal circulation
Aetiology
The cause of this phenomenon is still under debate however possible roles have been attributed to strong uterine contractions, excessive amniotic fluid and disruption of vessels supplying the uterus
Not predictable or preventable, usually occurs in labour
Clinical features
Sudden onset of:
Hypoxia/respiratory arrest
Hypotension
Fetal distress
Seizures
Shock
Confusion
Cardiac arrest
Disseminated intravascular coagulation
Investigations
Bloods: FBC, U&E, calcium and magnesium, clotting studies, ABG