Amniotic fluid embolism and disseminated intravascular coagulation complicating hypertonic saline-induced abortion

Abstract

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) associated with disseminated intravascular clotting (DIC) is usually fatal. Such a combination generally occurs at the term of pregnancy or in the immediate postpartum period. A case of AFE with DIC following a hypertonic-salineinduced abortion, is reported. The patient was in the midtrimester with a live fetus. Prompt recognition and treatment of her condition ensured her complete recovery. Such a case has not, to our knowledge, been previously reported. © 1983 The Fellowship of Postgraduate Medicine.