Non-invasive Test to Detect Intra-amniotic Infection in Women With Preterm Labor and Intact Amniotic Membranes

Overview

The purpose of this study is to collect clinical specimens and corresponding clinical data to develop a non-invasive test for detection of intra-amniotic infection and prediction of preterm birth in women and intact amniotic membranes. The specimens collected will be used to develop a specific biomarker panel and algorithm using immunoassays for optimal detection of intra-amniotic infection in women with preterm labor and intact amniotic membranes.

Intra-amniotic infection (IAI) is an acute bacterial infection of the amniotic fluid and intrauterine contents during pregnancy and occurs in 4% to 10% of all deliveries (Newton, ER., 1993. Newton, ER, et al., 1989. Soper, DE, et al., 1989). IAI is an important cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity. Identifying and appropriately treating women with IAI is, therefore, a major obstetrical challenge. Intrauterine infection may occur early in pregnancy and remain undetected for a prolonged period, thus exposing the fetus to the effects of infection/inflammation for a considerable period. Ideally, an early diagnosis of IAI is important to allow timely treatment and intervention. Unfortunately, the early diagnosis is difficult because the clinical signs and symptoms of IAI may occur late in the course of the infection and are neither sensitive nor specific. Therefore, to avoid a delay in diagnosis a high degree of suspicion and the appropriate use of adjunctive laboratory tests are warranted.

Conditions

Eligibility

Locations (21)

Outcomes

Central Contacts