Related Experiment Videos
Dark brown amniotic fluid-identification of contributing pigments
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|June 1, 1981
Summary
Dark brown amniotic fluid in the second trimester, often linked to hemoglobin pigments, was detected in 15 samples. This pigmentation was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Amniotic fluid pigmentation can indicate fetal distress or complications.
- Hemoglobin and meconium are common substances found in amniotic fluid.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causes and implications of dark brown amniotic fluid in the second trimester.
- To identify specific pigments present in abnormal amniotic fluid.
Main Methods:
- Visual and spectrophotometric analysis of 208 second-trimester amniotic fluid samples.
- Chemical detection of hemoglobin-derived pigments and meconium.
Main Results:
- 15 samples (7.2%) showed dark brown coloration.
- 14 of these contained hemoglobin A, with 8 also positive for hemoglobin F.
- One sample contained only meconium.
- Four pregnancies with pigmented fluid resulted in preterm birth; myoglobin was detected in three of these.
Conclusions:
- Dark brown amniotic fluid in the second trimester is frequently associated with hemoglobin pigments.
- This finding may indicate an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth.