OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the frequency and clinical
significance of a systemic inflammatory response as defined by an elevated plasma
interleukin-6 concentration in fetuses with preterm labor or preterm premature rupture of
membranes. STUDY DESIGN: Amniocenteses and cordocenteses were performed in 157
patients with preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of membranes. Written informed
consent and multi-institutional review board approvals were obtained. Amniotic fluid was …