The value of the leukocyte esterase test in diagnosing intra-amniotic infection

Roberto Romero, Mohamed Emamian, Macor Wan, Shaul Yarkoni, William McCormack, Moshe Mazor, John C. Hobbins

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

43 Scopus citations

Abstract

This communication examines the diagnostic value of the leukocyte esterase activity (LEA) test in the detection of intra-amniotic infection. Amniotic fluid from 171 consecutive patients with premature rupture of membranes (n = 149) and preterm labor (n = 22) was obtained through amniocentesis. Gram stain, bacterial and mycoplasma cultures, and LEA tests were performed. The LEA had a sensitivity of 19%, a specificity of 86.7%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 42.3% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 67.6% in the prediction of a positive amniotic fluid culture (prevalence of positive cultures = 33.9%). The Gram stain had a sensitivity of 36.2%, specificity of 94.7%, PPV of 77.8%, and NPV of 74.3%. When both tests were combined, a significant increase in sensitivity to 50% was observed. This was associated with a drop in specificity to 81.4%. There was a correlation between the number of white blood cells in the amniotic fluid and the result of the LEA test. A positive LEA assay was associated with an increased likelihood of postpartum endometritis, but not with clinical chorioamnionitis or neonatal infectious morbidity.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)64-69
Number of pages6
JournalAmerican Journal of Perinatology
Volume5
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 1988
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

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