abruptio placentae

Introduction

Premature separation of a normally located placenta.

Etiology

cocaine use may increase risk

Epidemiology

0.4-3.5% of pregnancies

Clinical manifestations

• oliguria may occur
• shock may occur

Complications

• most common cause of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in pregnancy; most patients have laboratory evidence of DIC without excessive bleeding

Management

• correction of shock & hypovolemia by administration of fluids & blood products
• delivery of fetus

More general terms

• placental disorder
• internal hemorrhage

Additional terms

• disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
• placenta