Diagnostic Accuracy of Fetal Fibronectin Test In Prediction of Preterm Labor

Rekhan, Shazia Naseeb, Ramna Devi

Abstract

Objective

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of fetal fibronectin test in detection of preterm labor.

Study design

Cross sectional observational study.

Place & Duration of study•

Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit 1, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre Karachi, From June 2014 to December 2015.

Methodology

All patients with preterm labor, meeting inclusion criteria were included after taking detailed history and physical examination. Purpose and procedure explained to patients and an informed consent taken. Fetal fibronectin test was performed. Age, gravida, parity, gestational age, newborn weight and fetal fibrinoectin test were taken as variables. Patient were monitored and followed up for timing of delivery.

Results 

A total of 100 patients were included. Mean age of the participants was 35.49±5.7 year.  Seventy-five (75%) were gravida of <3 and 25 (25%) grandmultipara. Mean gestational age was 31.36±2.6 weeks. Sixty-one (61%) women were hospitalized, 55 (55%) received steroids and 90% received tocolysis. Fifty-seven (57%) women delivered after 14 days of steroids and/or tocolysis. A total of 60% newborns weigh <2 kg and 40% weigh >=2 kg. The accuracy of fibronectin test in prediction of preterm labor was 75%.

Conclusion

Fibronectin test helped in prediction of preterm labor in 75% of pregnant women.

Key words

Preterm labor, Fetal fibronectin, Preterm birth.