Sepsis Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Sepsis, including details on septicemia, diagnosis, symptoms, treatment.

Maternal death after second-trimester genetic amniocentesis.

Thorp JA, Helfgott AW, King EA, King AA, Minyard AN

Regional Perinatal Center, Sacred Heart Women's Hospital, Pensacola, USA.

BACKGROUND: We report a maternal death after a second-trimester amniocentesis. CASE: An uncomplicated amniocentesis was performed using sterile technique and ultrasound guidance. A refrigerated amniotic fluid specimen demonstrated negative leukocyte esterase activity, negative Gram stain for bacteria and white blood cells, and normal glucose and interleukin-6. The patient died from Escherichia coli sepsis and disseminated intravascular coagulation 40 hours after the amniocentesis. The autopsy showed normal- appearing needle entries into the skin and uterus without evidence of bowel adhesion or a needle track through the bowel. CONCLUSION: Genetic counselors and obstetric care providers should be aware of potential serious maternal morbidity and mortality that may occur subsequent to uncomplicated amniocentesis.

Published 2 May 2005 in Obstet Gynecol, 105(5): 1213-5.
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