Intravascular Hemolysis and Acute Kidney Injury Following an Emergent Cesarean Delivery: A Case Report

The uncommon occurrence of intravascular hemolysis leading to acute kidney injury (AKI) in the postpartum period, particularly following an emergent cesarean section (C-section), represents a serious complication that requires prompt recognition and management. This report highlights the case of a 31-year-old woman at 37.4 weeks of gestation who underwent an emergency C-section due to persistent fetal bradycardia. Her immediate postoperative course was complicated by oliguria, a drop in hemoglobin, and signs of hemolysis, such as elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), low haptoglobin, low hemoglobin, and elevated bilirubin levels. These laboratory findings were suggestive of intravascular hemolysis, which, when coupled with AKI, can be life-threatening without early intervention. Our case emphasizes the importance of early identification and a multidisciplinary approach in managing postpartum intravascular hemolysis and AKI to optimize maternal outcomes.