Labor induces a maternal inflammatory response syndrome

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2004 Feb;190(2):448-55. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2003.08.027.

Abstract

Objective: We studied the effect of labor on maternal neutrophil phenotype.

Study design: Neutrophil apoptosis with inflammatory cytokines and the expression of CD11b, CD34 and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) were assessed with flow cytometry in women at uncomplicated vaginal delivery (VD), and elective cesarean section (ElCS) without labor, emergency cesarean section with (EmCSL+) or without (EmCSL-) labor.

Results: Spontaneous neutrophil apoptosis is delayed in maternal neutrophils after VD, EmCSL+ or EmCSL- versus ElCS. In all groups lipopolysaccharide delayed apoptosis and increased CD11b expression. Elevated TLR4 expression in ElCS was associated with lipopolysaccharide responsiveness. CD34 was diminished in VD, indicating increased cell maturity.

Conclusion: Normal labor primes the neutrophil and may enhance antibacterial function by inducing a mild maternal inflammatory response syndrome. Delayed neutrophil apoptosis may promote the neutrophilia seen in women after VD. We suggest that labor of any duration may be immunologically beneficial to the parturient.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, Surface / metabolism
  • Apoptosis
  • Cesarean Section
  • Delivery, Obstetric
  • Female
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Humans
  • Labor, Obstetric / immunology*
  • Membrane Glycoproteins / metabolism
  • Neutrophils / physiology*
  • Phenotype
  • Pregnancy
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / metabolism
  • Toll-Like Receptor 4
  • Toll-Like Receptors

Substances

  • Antigens, Surface
  • Membrane Glycoproteins
  • Receptors, Cell Surface
  • TLR4 protein, human
  • Toll-Like Receptor 4
  • Toll-Like Receptors