Determination of Bilirubin in Amniotic Fluid A New, Simple, and Efficient Method

Abstract

Abstract A simple, speedy, and efficient method is described for the quantitative determination of unconjugated bilirubin in amniotic fluid. The method makes it possible to use an uncentrifuged sample and to detect as little as 0.00125 mg of bilirubin per 100 ml of amniotic fluid without interference by hemoglobin. The analysis can easily be completed in 30 min. Bilirubin is completely separated from all contaminants, except in samples that are grossly contaminated with meconium. If such interference is absent only one reading, at one wavelength, is necessary; a scanning spectrophotometer is therefore not required.