Reduced nitric oxide in amniotic fluid of patients with Chorioamnionitis

Objective: Levels of nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines were assessed in amniotic fluid obtained from patients with severe chorioamnionitis (CAM) and appropriate controls. Methods: Amniotic fluid was obtained from 12 patients with CAM (17-24 weeks of gestation) and 89 patients undergoing diagnostic amniocentesis (16-18 weeks of gestation). The concentrations of NO, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and leukocyte elastase (LE) in amniotic fluid were then measured and compared. Results: The concentrations of NO, IL-6, and LE were all higher in CAM cases than in normal pregnant women. Furthermore, an inverse correlation between NO and LE was suggested in the CAM group. Conclusions: These results indicate that in severe CAM, the action of NO might be reduced, not only due to blockage of action but also by degradation, despite increased production. Copyright (c) 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.