[Diagnostic value of prolactin and B-HCG levels of vaginal fluid in diagnosis of premature rupture of membranes]

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was diagnosis of premature rupture of membranes in suspected patients by measurement of prolactin and B-hCG levels in vaginal washing in order to reduce perinatal mortality and morbidity. The study included 211 pregnant women who were referred to the emergency of Imam Hossein Hospital at 28-38 weeks of pregnancy for leakage or prenatal care from April, 2007 to April 2008. The expulsion of fluid from the cervix was evaluated and fern and nitrazin tests were done. B-hCG and prolactin levels of vaginal washing fluid were measured. The presence of 2 of 3 parameters of fern test, nitrazin and cervical fluid was defined as absolutely premature rupture of membranes. Man-Withney U-test was used for analysis. The Roc curve was calculated. There were 132 patients in PROM group and 79 patient in the control group. The average age in the PROM and control groups was 26.9 +/- 6.08 and 26.2 +/- 4.84 years, respectively [P=0.074]. Both groups were matched for parity and gravidity. Prolactin levels in PROM group were 2930 +/- 3737 mIU/l versus 23.18 +/- 120mIU/l in the control group [P=0.000]. B-hCG was 439.78 +/- 1867mIU/l in PROM and 17.72 +/- 30mIU/l in control group [p=0.000]. Sensitivity and specificity of prolactin according to cut-off of 16.0mIU/l was 79.41% and 96%, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity for B-hCG with cut-off point of 12.5 was 69.85% and 69.33%, respectively. The measurement of prolactin and B-hCG levels in patients with suspected premature rupture of membranes can help in decision-making and treatment