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Fetal origin of amniotic fluid polymorphonuclear leukocytes
J E Sampson1, R P Theve, R N Blatman
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
In suspected intrauterine infections, fetal polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) are a key indicator of fetal immune response. This study identified these inflammatory cells as fetal in amniotic fluid using chromosome-specific probes.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) are common in amniotic fluid during suspected intrauterine infections.
- The origin of these PMNs (maternal or fetal) has remained unclear.
- Intrauterine infection can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the source of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) in the amniotic fluid of pregnancies with suspected intrauterine infection.
- To investigate the fetal immune response in cases of intraamniotic infection.
Main Methods:
- Amniotic fluid samples were collected from women with male fetuses in premature labor and signs of infection.
- Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with X and Y chromosome probes was used to identify cell origin.
- Cells were stained with 4'-6-diamidino-2-phenyl-indole (DAPI) to confirm polymorphonuclear leukocyte morphology.
Main Results:
- Over 90% of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) in amniotic fluid samples possessed both X and Y chromosomes.
- This indicates that the majority of these inflammatory cells were of fetal origin.
- Fetal membranes remained intact in all studied cases.
Conclusions:
- The findings demonstrate a fetal immune response during intraamniotic infection.
- Further research into the roles of maternal and fetal PMNs in chorioamnionitis is warranted.
- Understanding the interplay between maternal and fetal immune responses is crucial for managing intraamniotic infections.