Fetal Fibronectin in cervical and vaginal secretions as a predictor of preterm delivery

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the detection of fetal fibronection in cervico-vaginal secretions of patients with symptoms suggestive of preterm labour, as a predictor of preterm birth, 235 women presenting to the delivery suite between 24 to 37 weeks of gestation were selected. Speciemens of cervico-vaginal secretions were collected and fetal fibronectin levels were measured by >/= ELISA. Samples were considered positive if the level was >/= 005 ug/ml. It was found that fetal fibronection predicted preterm labour with positive predictive value of 80.76%, negative predictive value of 89.61%, sensitivity of 68.85% and specificity of 94.25%. Analysis of the data from women at less than 34 weeks of gestation showed similar results. Of the negative fetal fibronectin results obtained upon admission, 96.75% of women delivered after 7 days. It was concluded that fetal fibronectin appears as a promising marker for predicting preterm delivery in high risk women. However, only when we fully understand how the mechanisms underlying the release and their initiation are related to the processes leading to labour, will the full potential of the test be realized