Amniotic fluid embolism in pregnancy, third trimester

This code signifies a rare but life-threatening obstetric emergency where amniotic fluid, fetal cells, hair, or other debris enters the maternal bloodstream during the third trimester of pregnancy. This triggers an anaphylactoid reaction, leading to cardiovascular collapse, respiratory distress, and coagulopathy. It represents a severe systemic inflammatory response.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states an amniotic fluid embolism occurring in a pregnant patient during her third trimester. Supporting documentation will typically include clinical signs of sudden maternal collapse, such as hypotension, hypoxia, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), confirmed by the treating physician.

• Always ensure the documentation specifies "third trimester" for accurate code assignment.
• Do not confuse with other types of embolisms (e.g., pulmonary embolism) unless amniotic fluid is explicitly identified as the embolic material.
• Sequence this code as a principal diagnosis when it is the primary reason for the encounter, followed by codes for associated complications like DIC or cardiac arrest.