Reduced nitric oxide in amniotic fluid of patients with chorioamnionitis

OBJECTIVE: Levels of nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines were assessed in amniotic fluid obtained from patients with severe chorioamnionitis (CAM) and appropriate controls. METHODS: Amniotic fluid was obtained from 12 patients with CAM (17-24 weeks of gestation) and 89 patients undergoing diagnostic amniocentesis (16-18 weeks of gestation). The concentrations of NO, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and leukocyte elastase (LE) in amniotic fluid were then measured and compared. RESULTS: The concentrations of NO, IL-6, and LE were all higher in CAM cases than in normal pregnant women. Furthermore, an inverse correlation between NO and LE was suggested in the CAM group. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that in severe CAM, the action of NO might be reduced, not only due to blockage of action but also by degradation, despite increased production.