The amnion is seen at the very bottom of the image and composed of a simple cuboidal epithelium and a layer of eosinophilic (pink) connective tissue. It has a few scattered neutrophils - which makes the diagnosis of chorioamnionitis. Above the amnion is the chorion, which also has neutrophils.

The fetus (baby) - not shown - would be below the image (and surrounded by amnionic fluid). The top of the image is the maternal aspect of the fetal membranes. It has significant inflammation.

The pattern of inflammation seen in this image is typical of chorioamnionitis; most chorioamnionitis results from an ascending infection, i.e. the microorganisms ascend from the vagina/cervix.

• Image:Chorioamnionitis2.jpg - high magnification image.