What is the diagnosis for a 35-year-old woman, gravida (number of times pregnant) 4, para (number of viable births) 3, at 37 weeks gestation, presenting with leakage of meconium-stained fluid and painful contractions, with a temperature within normal limits, normotension (normal blood pressure), and a normal pulse rate, and fetal heart tracing showing moderate variability and early decelerations?

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Differential Diagnosis

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Preterm labor with rupture of membranes (ROM) and meconium-stained amniotic fluid: This diagnosis is the most likely due to the patient's symptoms of leakage of fluid, painful contractions, and the presence of meconium-stained fluid in the vagina. The patient's cervix is 6 cm dilated, indicating active labor.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Term labor with ROM and meconium-stained amniotic fluid: Although the patient is at 37 weeks gestation, which is considered term, the presence of meconium-stained fluid and the patient's symptoms suggest that labor may be progressing.
    • Chorioamnionitis: The patient's history of continuous vaginal leakage of clear fluid for the past 2 days, followed by the appearance of green fluid, may indicate an intrauterine infection.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Placental abruption: Although the patient's symptoms do not strongly suggest placental abruption, the presence of meconium-stained fluid and painful contractions warrants consideration of this diagnosis, as it can be life-threatening for both the mother and the fetus.
    • Uterine rupture: Given the patient's history of multiple prior vaginal deliveries, there is a small risk of uterine rupture, which would be a medical emergency.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Amniotic fluid embolism: This rare but potentially life-threatening condition can occur when amniotic fluid enters the maternal circulation, causing a severe reaction.
    • Vasa previa: Although rare, vasa previa can cause significant fetal bleeding and is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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