Survival from DIC following amniotic fluid embolism. Successful treatment with a serine proteinase inhibitor; FOY.

A 30-year-old multigravida of 38 weeks gestation bled profusely at delivery. Coagulation studies revealed disseminated intravascular coagulation and a diagnosis of amniotic fluid embolism was made. Treatment consisted of transfusion of whole blood and administration of a synthetic serine proteinase inhibitor, FOY. Approximately two hours after administration of the latter, bleeding began to cease and vital signs became stable. The patient survived without sequelae.