chorioamnionitis
Pronunciation: kor-ee-oh-am-nee-uh-NAHY-tis
Infection of the fetal membranes and amniotic fluid, typically caused by bacterial invasion.
Full Definition
Chorioamnionitis is an intrauterine infection involving the chorion, amnion, and amniotic fluid, usually resulting from ascending bacterial infection from the lower genital tract. Clinical presentation includes maternal fever, uterine tenderness, malodorous amniotic fluid, and elevated white blood cell count. The condition poses significant risks including preterm labor, neonatal sepsis, and maternal postpartum complications. Diagnosis is often clinical, though amniotic fluid analysis may be performed. Treatment involves antibiotics and expedited delivery, particularly if fetal compromise is evident.
Usage
Usage note: May be documented as clinical (symptom-based) or histologic (pathology-confirmed) diagnosis.
In Context
- "Clinical chorioamnionitis was diagnosed based on maternal fever and uterine tenderness." — Labor and delivery assessment
- "Antibiotic therapy was initiated immediately upon suspicion of chorioamnionitis." — Treatment documentation