[Assessment of fetal fibronectin concentration in identifying patients at risk for preterm delivery].

DESIGN

Identifying patients at risk for preterm delivery continues to be difficult.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed at evaluating fetal fibronectin concentrations in cervical secretions measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, as a tool for of premature delivery screening in patients with preterm uterine contractions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Symptomatic 115 women, admitted to Department of Perinatology (RIPMMH) between 24 weeks 0 days and 34 weeks 6 days, with intact amniotic membranes, single pregnancy, cervical dilatation <3 cm and with no cerclage were included. Samples of the cervical secretion were taken every week until the delivery or to hospital discharge.

RESULTS

The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays revealed sensitivity of 73.7% and specificity of 90.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

This test was found to be a good tool for the prediction of premature delivery.