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Lipid content of amniotic fluid cells
Clinica Chimica Acta; International Journal of Clinical Chemistry
|January 31, 1980
Summary
Assessing fetal maturity, this study found that chemical lipid analysis of amniotic fluid cells accurately predicts fetal development. Increased cholesterol and glycerides after 37 weeks indicate successful fetal maturity assessment.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Biochemistry
- Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Accurate assessment of fetal maturity is crucial for managing high-risk pregnancies.
- Evaluating fetal lung maturity is a key component of prenatal care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the lipid content of fetal cells in human amniotic fluid.
- To assess the relationship between chemical lipid measurements and fetal maturity.
- To evaluate the utility of these tests in managing high-risk pregnancies.
Main Methods:
- Analyzed 45 human amniotic fluid samples.
- Quantified free and total cholesterol using gas chromatography.
- Assessed glycerides via enzymatic glycerol content analysis.
- Estimated orange cell count using Nile Blue sulphate staining.
Main Results:
- Chemically measured lipid content correlated closely with the number of orange cells.
- Total cholesterol and glycerides significantly increased after 37 weeks of gestation.
- Chemical lipid determination demonstrated accuracy and reliability.
Conclusions:
- Chemical determination of cell-associated lipids in amniotic fluid is a reliable method for assessing fetal maturity.
- These lipid analyses provide a valuable tool for managing high-risk pregnancies.
- Chemical methods offer a more precise evaluation of lipid accumulation compared to histochemical techniques.