[Amniotic fluid analysis. Part I: Rapid markers in the prediction of intra-amniotic infection].

Intraamniotic infection has been recognized as a major etiologic factor for preterm delivery. Several groups have proposed that amniocentesis be used to identify the patient at risk for infectious morbidity. The number of techniques have been studied for rapid identification of bacterial colonization of amniotic cavity. Diagnostic index value of Gram stain, white blood cell count, glucose level and LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) activity for prediction of positive amniotic fluid culture, preterm delivery, clinical infection and neonatal sepsis were shown in the study. Investigators continue attempts to establish a rapid, more useful tests to predict preterm delivery.