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Relationship between cortisol and lecithin/sphingomyelin ratios in human amniotic fluid
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|June 1, 1975
Summary
This study found no strong correlation between amniotic fluid cortisol levels and lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratios in pregnant women. These key indicators of fetal lung maturity do not appear to be closely linked in amniotic fluid analysis.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Amniotic fluid analysis is crucial for assessing fetal well-being.
- Cortisol and lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio are potential biomarkers for fetal lung maturity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between amniotic fluid cortisol levels and L/S ratios.
- To evaluate the relationship between these markers and gestational age.
Main Methods:
- Radioimmunoassay was used to measure cortisol levels in 114 amniotic fluid samples from 85 women.
- Lecithin/sphingomyelin (L/S) ratios were determined using thin-layer chromatography and densitometry.
- Multiple regression analysis was employed to assess correlations.
Main Results:
- Cortisol levels ranged from 38 to 438 ng/mL, and L/S ratios ranged from 0.3 to 9.2.
- A weak correlation (r=0.371) was observed between cortisol and L/S ratios.
- Both cortisol levels and L/S ratios increased with advancing gestational age from <32 to 41-42 weeks.
Conclusions:
- The study indicates no significant correlation between amniotic fluid cortisol and L/S ratios.
- These findings suggest that cortisol may not be a reliable predictor of fetal lung maturity when assessed alongside the L/S ratio.