Amniotic fluid embolism.

Amniotic fluid embolism remains an enigmatic and often lethal condition. The pathophysiology is complex, however, from a clinical standpoint. Right or, more commonly, left heart failure is the dominant physiologic aberration. Disseminated intravascular coagulation is often present. The detection of squamous cells in the central circulation of living patients can no longer be considered pathognomonic for this condition.