Sign In



Remember Me

MedlinePlus®

A service of the National Library of Medicine.

Resource Library


Powered by Dorland's Medical Dictionary for Healthcare Consumers
 

This information is provided by an independent source. Merck & Co., Inc. is not responsible for this content. Please discuss any and all treatment options with your healthcare professional. The manufacturer of a product generally has the most complete information about that product.
 
Return to Main Index >> How to Use  
 


Dorland Logo
A |  B |  C |  D |  E |  F |  G |  H |  I |  J |  K |  L |  M |  N |  O |  P |  Q |  R |  S |  T |  U |  V |  W |  X |  Y |  Z

 
amniotic fluid  the albuminous fluid contained in the amniotic sac. The fetus floats in this fluid, which serves as a cushion against injury from sudden blows or movements and helps maintain a constant body temperature for the fetus. Normally the fluid is clear and slightly alkaline; discoloration or excessive cloudiness may indicate fetal distress or disease, as in erythroblastosis fetalis in which fluid is usually greenish yellow. See also amniocentesis.




Elsevier Logo
Copyright 2007. An Elsevier publication. All rights reserved.
Click here for important legal information about Dorland's Medical Dictionary.

 
 
    Print This Page   Add To My Folder