Fetal and maternal copper levels in patients at term with and without premature rupture of membranes.

This study evaluated the relationship between serum copper levels and premature rupture of the membranes (PROM). Serum copper levels are significantly lower in fetuses and their mothers with PROM at term as compared with a control group without PROM. Birth weights of the newborns delivered following PROM are significantly lower than those in the control group despite similarity of gestational ages. The significance of these findings is discussed.