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Cervico-vaginal fetal fibronectin: predictive value during false labor
B Langer1, E Boudier, G Schlaeder
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology II, Hautepierre Hospital, Strasbourg, France.
Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Fetal fibronectin testing in cervicovaginal secretions can help identify patients at high risk for preterm delivery when experiencing false labor. This diagnostic tool aids in predicting the likelihood of premature birth in hospitalized pregnant individuals.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Diagnostic Testing
Background:
- Preterm delivery is a significant concern in obstetric care.
- Accurate prediction of preterm birth is crucial for timely intervention.
- Uterine contractions without cervical change can present a diagnostic challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of fetal fibronectin as a diagnostic marker for preterm delivery.
- To assess the discriminative capability of fetal fibronectin in patients hospitalized for suspected preterm labor.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, double-blind study was conducted.
- Included patients hospitalized between 24 and 34 weeks gestation presenting with false labor.
- Cervicovaginal swabs were analyzed for fetal fibronectin using a monoclonal antibody assay.
Main Results:
- Out of 61 patients, 18 had positive fetal fibronectin swabs.
- Sensitivity was 56%, specificity 81%, with positive and negative predictive values of 56% and 81% respectively.
- Meta-analysis indicated a 3.3-fold increased risk of preterm delivery in the presence of fetal fibronectin.
Conclusions:
- Positive fetal fibronectin in cervicovaginal secretions suggests a significant risk of preterm delivery.
- Fetal fibronectin serves as a valuable indicator in managing patients with symptoms of preterm labor.
- The test aids in identifying individuals who may benefit from closer monitoring or intervention.