Term histologic chorioamnionitis: a heterogeneous condition

Nathalie Conti1, Michela Torricelli1, Chiara Voltolini1

  • 1Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.

A histologic response of histologic chorioamnionitis (HCA) is defined as an intrauterine inflammatory condition characterized by acute granulocyte infiltration into the fetal-maternal or the fetal tissues. Prevalence of HCA is inversely correlated with gestational age, occurring in 50% of preterm birth and in up to 20% of deliveries at term. Regardless of these standard definitions, understanding HCA is challenging as it reflects a heterogeneous condition. A histologic response of HCA from term placentas often does not correspond to a clinical presentation; in this context, the present review aims to analyze main characteristics of this condition, in particular focusing on mechanisms and birth outcomes.

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