Diamine oxidase activity in amniotic fluid for diagnosis of ruptured membranes.

Diamine oxidase in vaginal effluent is used as a parameter for ascertaining the state of fetal membranes. A new method using tritiated putrescine as a substrate is described for the determination of diamine oxidase in amniotic fluid and vaginal effluents. A number of tests are used for the diagnosis of premature rupture of fetal membranes. The described procedure for diamine oxidase activity determination can be used in general hospitals and has advantages over other parameters such as pH, glucose or fructose concentration, and the amniotic fluid crystallization test.