Intrauterine infection is defined as the microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity at any time during pregnancy. Amniotic fluid bacteria might stimulate the biosynthesis of inflammatory cytokines, and induce an acute inflammatory response in the fetus. Generalized fetal infection is a risk factor for onset of preterm labor and severe neonatal morbidity and mortality. In cases of intrauterine infection, obstetric management is aimed to provide optimal care for two patients, the mother and her fetus. Possible interventions include antibiotic treatment, steroid prophylaxis, administration of tocolytics, and elective delivery. Since neonatal morbidity is influenced by the gestational age in which intrauterine infection occurred, a gestational age dependant approach is needed to treat selected cases of intrauterine infection.
展开▼
