chorioamnionitis
Pronunciation: kor-ee-oh-am-nee-oh-NY-tis
Bacterial infection of the fetal membranes and amniotic fluid during pregnancy, often leading to preterm delivery.
Full Definition
Chorioamnionitis is an intrauterine infection involving inflammation of the chorion, amnion, and amniotic fluid, typically caused by ascending bacterial infection from the genital tract. This condition is a significant cause of preterm labor and delivery, affecting both maternal and fetal health. Clinical signs include maternal fever, uterine tenderness, foul-smelling amniotic fluid, maternal and fetal tachycardia, and elevated maternal white blood cell count. Chorioamnionitis increases the risk of neonatal sepsis, pneumonia, meningitis, and cerebral palsy. Infants born following chorioamnionitis often require immediate antibiotic therapy and close monitoring in the NICU. The condition may be classified as clinical (diagnosed by physical findings) or histologic (confirmed by placental pathology). Prompt recognition and treatment with antibiotics and delivery are essential to minimize complications.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as 'chorio' in informal clinical communication but should be spelled out in formal documentation.
In Context
- "The newborn was started on ampicillin and gentamicin due to maternal chorioamnionitis and risk of early-onset sepsis." — Neonatal admission orders
- "Histologic chorioamnionitis was confirmed on placental pathology despite absence of clinical symptoms." — Pathology report