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. 2001;9(4):209–214. doi: 10.1155/S1064744901000345

Performance Characteristics of Putative Tests for Subclinical Chorioamnionitis

Rodney K Edwards 1,✉, Penny Clark 1, Gregory J Locksmith 2, Patrick Duff 1
PMCID: PMC1784661  PMID: 11916177

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate amniotic fluid glucose, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-12 for diagnosing subclinical chorioamnionitis in women with preterm labor.

Methods: Forty-four women in preterm labor at 22–35 weeks gestation with suspected subclinical chorioamnionitis underwentamniocentesis.Amniotic fluid analysis included Gram stain, culture, and determination of glucose, MMP-9, IL-6, and IL-12 concentrations. Median values of these analytes were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated for tests using a positive amniotic fluid culture or delivery within 24 hours as the key outcome variables

Results: Amniotic fluid concentrations of glucose, MMP-9, and IL-6 correlated closely with positive culture or delivery within 24 hours. IL-12 concentrations did not correlate with either a positive culture or delivery within 24 hours.

Conclusions: Amniotic fluid glucose, MMP-9, and IL-6 reliably predict microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity or imminent delivery. IL-12 values did not correlate with amniotic fluid culture results or imminent delivery.

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Selected References

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