Fetal fibronectin.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this review paper are to: describe the fetal fibronectin assay, its purpose, and clinical significance; evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the fetal fibronectin test; describe the specimen collection and measurement of the fetal fibronectin test; and present the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating fetal fibronectin testing in routine prenatal care.

DATA SOURCES

Current literature.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Fibronectin proteins function in plasma and extracellular matrix in cell adhesion and migration. Recently, a fibronectin protein has been evaluated and proposed as a predictor of preterm delivery. A simple, qualitative assay detects this protein, fetal fibronectin, in cervicovaginal secretions of women who are at risk for or have symptoms of preterm delivery. The test is positive when there has been a rupture in the membranes attaching the fetus to the uterus, thus indicating pending preterm delivery. Sensitivity and specificity studies have been performed to evaluate its reliable prediction of preterm delivery.

CONCLUSION

Evaluation of sensitivity and specificity studies document that the fetal fibronectin test predicts preterm delivery. For symptomatic women, a sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 86% was found.