Abruptio placentae in the setting of an atypical presentation of acute appendicitis: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Causes of placental abruption include traumatic events, cocaine use, hypertension, cigarette smoking and advanced maternal age. Recent studies also implicate inflammatory precursors, such as preterm premature rupture of membranes and chorioamnionitis. Clear precipitating events are often not identified, and precise etiologic determinants are still being determined.

CASE: A 25-year-old woman, grayida 4, para 2012, presented with acute onset of severe abdominal pain; frequent, low-amplitude contractions; and a nonreassuring fetal heart tracing. While performing an urgent cesarean section for acute placental abruption, a ruptured appendicitis was identified.

CONCLUSION

This case suggests that appendicitis in the third trimester may be a risk factor for placental abruption.