Transient left heart failure in amniotic fluid embolism

Intensive Care Med. 1990;16(4):269-71. doi: 10.1007/BF01705165.

Abstract

We report a patient with amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) in whom the occurrence of late onset, severe pulmonary oedema was due to isolated left ventricular (LV) failure. Following institution of diuretics and inotropic support, the situation promptly improved and follow-up haemodynamic assessment showed complete recovery of LV function. This report indicates that reversible LV failure may occur late after AFE and emphasises the usefulness of pulmonary artery catheterisation for proper assessment and guidance of therapy of pulmonary oedema in AFE.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Embolism, Amniotic Fluid / complications*
  • Embolism, Amniotic Fluid / diagnosis
  • Embolism, Amniotic Fluid / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Heart Failure / complications
  • Heart Failure / diagnostic imaging
  • Heart Failure / etiology*
  • Hemodynamics
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Puerperal Disorders / complications*
  • Puerperal Disorders / diagnosis
  • Puerperal Disorders / physiopathology
  • Pulmonary Edema / etiology*
  • Pulmonary Edema / physiopathology
  • Radiography