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Previous Volume 338:663-670 March 5, 1998 Number 10 Next

	Since this article has no abstract, we have provided an extract of the first 100 words of the full text and any section headings.

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The membranes surrounding the amniotic cavity are composed of the amnion and the chorion, which are closely adherent layers consisting of several cell types, including epithelial cells, mesenchymal cells, and trophoblast cells, embedded in a collagenous matrix. They retain amniotic fluid, secrete substances both into the amniotic fluid and toward the uterus, and guard the fetus against infection ascending the reproductive tract. The membranes normally rupture during labor. Premature rupture of the fetal membranes is defined as rupture of the membranes before the onset of labor.¹ Premature rupture of the membranes occurring before 37 weeks' gestation is usually referred to . . . [Full Text of this Article]

Structure of the Fetal Membranes

Natural History and Management of Fetal-Membrane Rupture

Mechanisms of Fetal-Membrane Rupture Preceding and during Labor

Changes in Collagen Content, Structure, and Catabolism

Connective-Tissue Disorders and Nutritional Deficiencies as Risk Factors

Increased Collagen Degradation

Clinical Factors Associated with Collagen Degradation and Premature Rupture of the Membranes

Infection

Hormones

Programmed Cell Death

Membrane Stretch and Premature Rupture of the Membranes

Predicting Preterm Premature Rupture of the Membranes

Prevention of Preterm Premature Rupture of the Membranes

Conclusions

Source Information

From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health and the Division of Maternal–Fetal Medicine, 2000 Courtyard Bldg., University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, 3400 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104-4283, where reprint requests should be addressed to Dr. Parry.

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