[Gestational trophoblastic emboli as possible cause of an acute respiratory distress syndrome (author's transl)].

In a patient with gestational trophoblastic disease midtrimester abortion was induced by intravenous application of prostaglandin F2 alpha. After evacuation of the uterus the patient developed a severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This syndrome has been described as resulting from trophoblastic emboli, hemorrhage shock, gestational osmotic imbalance or disseminated intravascular coagulation. Also an indirect side effect of prostaglandin has to be discussed. Patients who develop acute pulmonary complications after evacuation of a molar pregnancy appear to be at extremely high risk for persistent trophoblastic disease. The paper details the management and follow-up of this patient.