THE AMNIOTIC FLUID LECITHIN : SPHINGOMYELIN AREA RATIO (LSAR) IN PREGNANCIES COMPLICATED BY DIABETES

Abstract

Summary The lecithin : sphingomyelin area ratio (LSAR) was measured in 108 samples of amniotic fluid obtained after 32 weeks' gestation from 66 pregnant diabetics and in 34 samples from 27 women with latent diabetes during pregnancy. A previously reported finding that the normal terminal rise in the ratio did not occur in approximately one‐third of such patients was confirmed. The clinical value of this test, in timing delivery to minimize the risk of neonatal respiratory distress, is discussed; its routine use in pregnancies complicated by established or latent diabetes is advocated.