Amniotic fluid embolism: historical perspective, pathophysiology and clinical management

Abstract

Amniotic fluid embolism (hereafter, AFE) is a uniformly devastating event that is both unpredictable and unpreventable. Despite having been first described nearly 80 years ago, it remains a significant cause of maternal mortality worldwide. AFE is characterized by the triad of sudden hypoxia and hypotension, followed in most cases by coagulopathy. The diagnosis of AFE is clinical and prompt recognition and multi-disciplinary intervention essential. This paper seeks to review the history, pathophysiology, potential risk factors, strategies for identification and management, and outcomes of this unfortunate and storied obstetric emergency.