AMNIOTIC-FLUID ALPHA-1-ANTITRYPSIN CONCENTRATION IN PREMATURE RUPTURE OF THE MEMBRANES

Premature rupture of the membranes is probably a result of a loss in amniotic membrane collagen. A recent report that the concentration of α1-antitrypsin was decreased in patients with premature rupture of the membranes suggested a generalized defect in such pregnancies. In this study we compared the concentration of α1-antitrypsin in samples from pregnancies with premature rupture of the membranes and from pregnancies with preterm labor at similar gestational age. No difference in α1-antitrypsin concentration was noted between these groups or between samples with or without intrauterine infection. These results support a localized inflammation and necrosis of the membranes at the site of rupture. © 1990.