Delayed interval delivery of a second twin resulting in septic shock in the mother

Delayed interval delivery is an option in the extremely preterm twin pregnancies, in an attempt to decrease morbidity for the remaining fetuses. We report a case of diamniotic dichorionic pregnancy complicated by premature rupture of membranes of the first fetus at 20 weeks gestation. Premature delivery of the first twin occured nine days latter. Delayed interval delivery of the second twin was attempted using bed rest, tocolysis and antibiotics. Unfortunately, 14 days later spontaneous labour ensued and the birth took place with the mother presenting signs of chorioamnionitis. Septic shock occurred in the mother, with need of mechanical ventilation and aminergic support. It seems to us that it is important to present unsuccessful cases like this in order to discuss what are the optimal management options, while there is no universal agreement on this issue.