Question

Amnionitis is a condition which shows
(A) Inflammation of the amnion
(B) Rupture of the chorion
(C) Inflammation of the allantois
(D) None of the above

Answer 1

A human fetus grows inside a woman’s body for nine months. This is known as the gestation period. During this period, the growing fetus is surrounded by the amniotic sac containing the amniotic fluid. The amniotic sac is a shock absorber, acting as a cushion that protects the fetus from any physical trauma. The amniotic fluid also fights against foreign antigens.

Complete answer:
The amniotic sac is composed of an outer chorion and an inner amnion. The amnion membrane being thinner is supported by the chorion. Amniotic fluid is contained within the amnion. Infections cause inflammation of the amnion or chorion is called amnionitis. It is also known as chorioamnionitis or intraamniotic infection (IAI). The infection is caused by microorganisms namely bacteria, viruses, and fungus. Bacterial infections are the most common. The microorganism can enter the uterus either directly from the mother’s blood or the vagina.
The increase in maternal leukocytes way above the normal range, maternal and fetal heart rate increases the normal rate. For the mother, it’s more than 100 bpm and for the fetus, it’s more than 160 bpm. It can also be detected if the mother experiences abdominal pain, fever, or abnormal vaginal discharge.
Amnionitis could lead to bacteremia, postpartum hemorrhage in the mother. It could be fatal to the fetus or the newborn could have neonatal sepsis.
The allantois is a sac that forms a part of the growing embryo. It is filled with a clear fluid. In humans, the allantois fetal forms the urachus. It helps remove nitrogenous waste from the fetal bladder.

The correct option is (A). Amnionitis is a condition that shows the inflammation of the amnion.

Note: Sometimes very long labor can lead to this condition if the mother experiences any of the symptoms tests need to be conducted. As soon as amnionitis is diagnosed, antibodies need to be administered. This could help lower this risk. Cesarean delivery in such cases is not recommended by doctors. Amnionitis could also lead to preterm rupture of membranes (amnion and chorion).