RESUMO
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity of neutrophil granule products compared to WBC's and CRP in identification of sub clinical chorioamnionitis in women with preterm premature rupture of membrane [PROM]. Twenty five patients between 26-30 week gestations suffered from preterm PROM were included as a study group. The control group contained 25 apparently healthy pregnant women with matched gestational age. Blood samples were collected through latency period and at delivery for estimation of plasma defensin and lactoferrin and serum C - reactive protein CRP levels in addition to WBC's determination. After delivery the placenta of the study patients were examined histologically for evidence of chorioamnionitis. The fetal birth weight, Apgar score and any neonatal complications were recorded. At admission defensin level was significantly higher in patients with developed chorioamnionitis compared to patients without histological findings and controls [6583.1 vs 722.36 and 714.5 ng/ml respectively, p < 0.05]. WBC's were higher in patients with developed chrioamnionitis [p< 0.05]. lactoferrin and CRP didn't show the same relation. At delivery defensin, WBC's and CRP have demonstrated significantly increased levels in patients with developed chorioamnionitis compared to subjects who didn't develop chorioamionitis. Correlation coefficient of different studied lab tests demonstrated significant positive correlation between defensin, WBC's and CRP. In conclusion maternal plasma defensin level may serve as a good promising predictor for development of chorioamnionitis in patients with preterm PROM