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Intraamniotic infection with fusobacteria.
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Fusobacterium bacteria were found in amniotic fluid of women experiencing preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM). This suggests Fusobacterium plays a role in premature delivery, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM) are significant obstetric complications.
- The role of specific bacterial species in the pathogenesis of preterm labor is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and potential role of Fusobacterium in amniotic fluid of women with preterm labor and PROM.
Main Methods:
- A literature search identified ten studies involving amniotic fluid cultures.
- Fusobacterium isolation rates were analyzed in women with preterm labor and intact membranes versus those with preterm PROM.
Main Results:
- Fusobacterium was isolated from amniotic fluid in 9.9% of preterm PROM cases and 28.3% of preterm labor with intact membranes cases.
- These findings indicate a higher prevalence of Fusobacterium in women with preterm labor and intact membranes.
Conclusions:
- Fusobacterium appears to play a previously unrecognized role in the pathogenesis of premature labor and delivery.
- Amniotic fluid culture for anaerobes, particularly Fusobacterium, is recommended for women with preterm labor and intact membranes unresponsive to tocolytic drugs.