Sinusoidal fetal heart rate pattern in association with amnionitis.

A case is reported of intrapartum sinusoidal fetal heart rate (FHR) pattern in association with intrapartum amnionitis. Fetal and maternal outcome were excellent. Sinusoidal FHR patterns have been widely associated with severe fetal asphyxia and impending fetal death. In reviewing the published experience with sinusoidal FHR patterns, it is concluded that, although it is alarming, not every sinusoidal FHR pattern is an indication for immediated delivery.