Mechanism and cLinicaL characteristics in diagnosis and treatment of amniotic fluid emboLism / 中华围产医学杂志

ABSTRACT

Amniotic fluid embolism(AFE) is a fatal intrapartum complication. Typical AFE is characterized by respiratory and circulatory failure, followed by disseminated intravascular coagulation(DIC), while atypical AFE, which had a higher survival possibility, presents with unexplained DIC only. Recent findings support an anaphylactoid inflammatory mechanism underlying the pathophysiology of AFE. Milrinone is currently the first choice for AFE due to its several functions, such as reducing pulmonary artery pressure, and improving right ventricular function through lowering heart rate and positive inotropic action. A multidisciplinary team is required in the rescue of AFE and medical staff who are skilled in critical medicine (such as anesthesiologists) often play a pivotal role.