Amniotic Fluid Embolism Syndrome: Case Report and Review

A fatal case of amniotic fluid embolism syndrome in a 41-year-old woman during emergency caesarean section is reported. Review of the literature reveals that classical risk factors may be absent, diagnosis may be difficult, and that acute right heart failure may be less important than global myocardial dysfunction. In view of these features and the high mortality, management guidelines for amniotic fluid embolism syndrome are presented. A high index of suspicion for this condition is required and early management should be supported by close haemodynamic monitoring.