Which marker in amniotic fluid is predictive of preterm labor?

The marker in amniotic fluid that is predictive of preterm labor is interleukin-6 (IL-6). This cytokine is known for its role in the inflammatory response and is elevated in various conditions related to infection and inflammation within the fetal environment. During preterm labor, the presence of IL-6 indicates an inflammatory process that can lead to the onset of labor before the term gestation.

High levels of IL-6 in the amniotic fluid have been associated with conditions such as chorioamnionitis and other inflammatory responses that can precipitate labor. The detection of IL-6 can help clinicians identify women at risk for preterm labor, enabling timely interventions.

In contrast, while other interleukins such as IL-1, IL-8, and IL-10 also play roles in inflammatory processes and may be present in amniotic fluid during various conditions, IL-6 has the strongest correlation with preterm labor. Understanding these markers' roles helps in managing the risks associated with preterm labor effectively.