Amniotic Fluid Glucose Concentration as a Marker for Infection in Preterm Labor
Author Information
Author(s): Gary A. Dildy, Mark D. Pearlman, Leon G. Smith, Guillermo Tortolero-Luna, Sebastian Faro, David B. Cotton
Primary Institution: Baylor College of Medicine
Hypothesis
Can amniotic fluid glucose concentration effectively detect microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity in cases of preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of membranes?
Conclusion
Amniotic fluid glucose concentration is more sensitive in predicting chorioamnionitis than Gram stain or culture.
Supporting Evidence
- 25% of women in the study developed clinical chorioamnionitis.
- Low amniotic fluid glucose concentration was defined as less than 15 mg/dl.
- The sensitivity of low amniotic fluid glucose concentration to predict clinical chorioamnionitis was 73.3%.
- Amniotic fluid glucose concentration was a better predictor of clinical chorioamnionitis than positive amniotic fluid culture results.
Takeaway
Doctors can check the sugar level in amniotic fluid to see if there is an infection when a baby is born too early.
Methodology
Amniocentesis was performed on 60 women with preterm labor or preterm premature rupture of membranes to analyze amniotic fluid glucose concentration and perform Gram stain and culture.
Limitations
Gestational age-dependent normal ranges and other pathologic conditions affecting glucose concentrations were not fully addressed.
Participant Demographics
Median maternal age was 25 years, with a range of 15-41 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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