chorioamnionitis
Pronunciation: /ˌkɔːrioʊæmnɪəˈnaɪtɪs/
Inflammation of the fetal membranes and amniotic fluid, often due to bacterial infection during pregnancy.
Full Definition
Chorioamnionitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the chorion and amnion (fetal membranes) and amniotic fluid, most commonly caused by ascending bacterial infection from the lower genital tract. The condition affects approximately 1-5% of term pregnancies and up to 25% of preterm deliveries. Clinical chorioamnionitis is diagnosed based on maternal fever and additional signs such as maternal tachycardia, fetal tachycardia, uterine tenderness, and purulent or foul-smelling amniotic fluid. Histologic chorioamnionitis is diagnosed on pathological examination of the placenta and membranes, showing acute inflammatory infiltrates. The condition is associated with increased risks of preterm labor, neonatal sepsis, cerebral palsy, and maternal postpartum endometritis. Prompt antibiotic treatment and delivery are typically indicated.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between clinical and histologic chorioamnionitis in documentation.
In Context
- "Placental pathology revealed acute chorioamnionitis with neutrophilic infiltration of the membranes." — Pathology report
- "The patient presented with chorioamnionitis requiring immediate antibiotic therapy and delivery." — Labor and delivery note