Amniotic Fluid Embolism: Which of the following is a potential complication after initial reaction?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Seizures
• C. Coagulopathies
• D. Renal failure

Answer: (C)

Amniotic fluid embolism commonly triggers a systemic inflammatory and coagulation response. After the initial reaction, the coagulation system can swing into disseminated intravascular coagulation, consuming clotting factors and platelets. This leads to a coagulopathy characterized by unpredictable bleeding and abnormal coagulation tests. That post-reaction coagulopathy is the best match because the sequence typically goes from a sudden, life-threatening reaction to a consumptive coagulopathy rather than isolated hypertension or routine seizures. Hypertension is not typical, though seizures or renal failure can occur in the context of severe hypoxia or shock, they are not the defining post-reaction complication like coagulopathy.