Histologic study of chorioamnionitis in premature rupture of membranes

Abstract

Objective: Histologic evaluation of chorioamnionitis in premature rupture of membranes (PROM). Methods: 80 women with PROM were randomized and after delivery biopsies of placenta and membranes were histologically assessed and divided into 4 grades on the basis of polymorphonuclear infiltration. Results: Of 80 patients 72% were term and 28% were preterm PROM. Histologic signs of chorioamnionitis were found in 62.5% included mild in 32.5%, moderate in 25% and severe in 5%. Frequency and severity of chorioamnionitis in preterm-PROM were greater than term-PROM (P<0.05). Clinical signs of intrauterine infection were only found in 12% of chorioamnionitis. Conclusions: Histological evaluation of chorioamnionitis is a helpful assay especially in preterm-PROM.