Risk Factors and Outcomes of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes in a Cohort of 6968 Pregnant Women Prospectively Recruited

The relationships of inflammatory blood markers with maternal periodontal and dental states and their effects on preterm membrane rupture development

BACKGROUND

The influence of maternal oral and dental health on the occurrence of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (P-PROM) and its underlying mechanisms remain uncertain. This research seeks to investigate the impact of maternal oral and dental health on the incidence of P-PROM and its association with inflammatory markers in the blood.

METHODS

This study adopts a prospective case-control design methodology. The study involved 70 women diagnosed with P-PROM and delivered by an obstetrician and 79 women who had healthy deliveries with no prenatal complications. The values for DMFT (Number of decayed, missing and filled teeth) index, Gingival Index (GI), Plaque index (PI), Pocket depth (PD), Clinical attachment loss (CAL) and medical history were recorded. Mann-Whitney U test and hierarchical binomial logistic regression analysis were applied. It was considered statistically significant at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

The case group's DMFT, PI, GI, PD values were statistically significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.001). There was no relationship between DMFT, GI, PD, CAL and inflammatory blood markers (p > 0.05). In the regression analysis for possible risk factors that may be effective in P-PROM, oral and dental health parameters were the most effective.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral and dental health of women with P-PROM was found to be worse than that of the control group. Oral and dental health may be a potential risk factor that may contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with P-PROM.

CX3CL1/Fractalkine as a biomarker for early pregnancy prediction of preterm premature rupture of membranes

OBJECTIVES

The objective of our study was to evaluate serum CX3CL1/Fractalkine, a monocyte/macrophage chemoattractant expressed in cytotrophoblasts and decidual cells, as a predictive biomarker for the occurrence of preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

METHODS

A case-control study of 438 pregnancies including 82 PPROM cases and 64 preterm labor with intact membranes cases with blood samples collected at first trimester, second trimester and delivery was conducted. The predictive ability of CX3CL1 and maternal risk factors for the occurrence of PPROM was assessed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. A second, independent cohort was prospectively constituted to confirm the case-control study results.

RESULTS

First trimester CX3CL1 was significantly increased in PPROM cases when compared to matched controls. Multivariate regression analysis highlighted a significant difference for CX3CL1 measured during the first trimester (p<0.001). Alone, CX3CL1 predicts PPROM with a 90 % sensitivity and a specificity around 40 %. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for PPROM prediction were 0.64 (95% confidence interval: 0.57-0.71) for first trimester CX3CL1, and 0.61 (95% confidence interval: 0.54-0.68) for maternal risk factors (body mass index<18.5 kg/m2, nulliparity, tobacco use and the absence of high school diploma). The combination of CX3CL1 and maternal risk factors significantly improved the area under the curve: 0.72 (95% confidence interval: 0.66-0.79) (p<0.001). The results were confirmed on a second independent cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

CX3CL1 is a promising blood biomarker in the early (first trimester) prediction of PPROM.

Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes in Singleton Nulliparous Spontaneous Preterm Birth with and without Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes-A National Population-Based Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

 Preterm birth (PTB, birth before 37 gestational weeks) is the leading cause of neonatal death and a major challenge for obstetric and neonatal care. About two-thirds of PTBs are spontaneous PTB (sPTB), of which approximately 30% start with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). The aim of the study was to investigate risk factors and maternal and perinatal outcomes in sPTB with and without PPROM.

STUDY DESIGN

 This is a national population-based cohort study including all singleton pregnancies in nulliparous women with spontaneous onset of labor and vaginal births (n = 266,968) registered in the Swedish Medical Birth Register 2005 to 2014. sPTB with PPROM (sPTB-PPROM) and sPTB without PPROM were compared regarding risk factors and maternal and perinatal outcomes. Logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Adjustments were made for maternal age, body mass index, country of birth, smoking, chronic hypertension, pregestational and gestational diabetes, and gestational length.

RESULTS

 sPTB-PPROM (n = 5,037), compared with sPTB without PPROM (n = 8,426), was more common in women with previous spontaneous abortions, prepregnancy urinary tract infections, chronic hypertension, and gestational diabetes and had a higher risk of postpartum endometritis (aOR: 2.78, 95% CI: 1.55-5.00). Infants born to women with sPTB-PPROM had a lower risk of birth asphyxia (aOR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.43-0.83), respiratory distress syndrome (aOR: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.70-1.00), retinopathy of prematurity (aOR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.92-0.94), necrotizing enterocolitis (aOR: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.94-0.96), and higher risk of hypoglycemia (aOR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.01-1.28), and hyperbilirubinemia (aOR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.19-1.38) compared with infants born to sPTB without PPROM.

CONCLUSION

 Our findings of risk factors and distinct differences in adverse outcomes after sPTB-PPROM compared with sPTB without PPROM are of vital importance and might serve as a basis when elaborating programs for the prevention and management of PPROM.

KEY POINTS

· This is a large cohort study of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB).. · Singleton nulliparous sPTB with/without preterm premature rupture of membrane (PPROM) were studied.. · Distinct differences in adverse perinatal outcomes in sPTB with and without PPROM were observed..

The effect of maternal undernutrition on adverse obstetric outcomes among women who attend antenatal care in Gedeo zone public hospitals, cohort study design

BACKGROUND

Undernutrition refers to an overall deficiency of nutrients due to an inadequate intake of a well-balanced diet. Undernourishment during pregnancy is an important contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality. It remains a persistent problem in developing countries, where women usually fall behind men in having access to food, health care, and education. Despite the high prevalence of maternal undernourishment, its direct impact on obstetric outcomes has not been studied in developing countries, including Ethiopia.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the effect of maternal undernutrition on adverse obstetric outcomes in Gedeo zone public hospitals.

METHOD

A cohort study design was employed in Gedeo zone public hospitals from June 30, 2022, to February 28, 2023. This study included 721 pregnant women, 237 were exposed group whereas 484 were non-exposed. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select a non-exposed group and the exposed group was selected consecutively. Both groups were followed for 7 months, from 16 weeks of gestation to 24 h of delivery. The pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire and checklist were used. EpiData 4.4.1.2.version was used for data entry and analyzed using Stata version 16 software. A modified Poisson regression model with robust standard errors was used to determine relative risk, and the statistical association was declared at a p-value ≤ 0.05. Finally, the findings were reported in figures, tables, and words.

RESULT

The incidence of adverse obstetrics outcomes among undernourished and normally nourished mothers was hypertensive disorder during pregnancy (HDDP) (7.49% vs. 3.19%), antepartum haemorrhage (7.49% vs. 3.19%), obstructed labor (1.53% vs. 3.49%), premature rupture of the membrane (2.5% vs. 3.33%), preterm labor (6.52% vs. 6.93%), instrumental vaginal delivery (1.8% vs. 4.3%), postpartum haemorrhage (5.95% vs. 3.88%), and sepsis (3.74% vs. 1.94%). The risk of adverse obstetric outcomes among undernourished women was hypertensive disorder during pregnancy (HDDP) (aRR) = 4.07, 95%CI: 2.53-6.55), antepartum haemorrhage (APH) (aRR = 5.0, 95% CI: 2.08-12.72), preterm labor (aRR = 1.8, 95%CI: 1.23-2.62), operative delivery (aRR = 1.24, 95%C: 0.87-1.78), postpartum haemorrhage (aRR = 3.02, 95%CI: 1.91-4.79), and sepsis/chrioaminitis (aRR = 3.55, 95%CI: 1.83-6.89) times higher than normally nourished women.

CONCLUSION

The incidence rates of hypertensive disorder during pregnancy (HDDP), antepartum haemorrhage, postpartum haemorrhage, and sepsis were higher among undernourished women than normally nourished women. Undernourished women during pregnancy have an increased risk of adverse obstetrics outcomes including hypertensive disorder during pregnancy, antepartum, preterm labor, operative delivery, postpartum haemorrhage, and sepsis/chorioamnionitis.

Risk factors for premature rupture of membranes in pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors for premature rupture of membranes (PROM) in pregnant women.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES

Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP) and China Biology Medicine Disc were searched from inception to October 2022.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Cross-sectional, case-control and cohort studies published in English or Chinese that reported the risk factors for PROM were eligible for inclusion.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Two reviewers independently extracted the data and evaluated the risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and American Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality tools. Analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4 software, and heterogeneity was assessed using χ2 tests and I2 statistics. The sensitivity analyses included a methodological transition between fixed-effect and random-effect models and the systematic stepwise exclusion of studies.

RESULTS

A total of 21 studies involving 18 174 participants with 18 risk factors were included. The significant risk factors were low Body Mass Index (BMI) (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.32 to 3.61), interpregnancy interval (IPI) <2 years (OR 2.99, 95% CI 1.98 to 4.50), previous abortion (OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.76 to 3.14), previous preterm birth (OR 5.72, 95% CI 3.44 to 9.50), prior PROM (OR 3.95, 95% CI 2.48 to 6.28), history of caesarean section (OR 3.06, 95% CI 1.72 to 5.43), gestational hypertension (OR 3.84, 95% CI 2.36 to 6.24), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.44 to 3.23), abnormal vaginal discharge (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.45 to 3.27), reproductive tract infection (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.70 to 2.75), malpresentation (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.78 to 2.85) and increased abdominal pressure (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.97). The sensitivity analysis showed that the pooled estimates were stable.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis indicated that low BMI, IPI <2 years, previous abortion, previous preterm birth, prior PROM, history of caesarean section, gestational hypertension, GDM, abnormal vaginal discharge, reproductive tract infection, malpresentation and increased abdominal pressure might be associated with a greater risk of PROM. Associations between smoking status, short cervical length, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and PROM require further investigation.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42022381485.

Early life gut microbiome in children following spontaneous preterm birth and maternal preeclampsia

The early life microbiome plays an important role in developmental and long-term health outcomes. However, it is unknown whether adverse pregnancy complications affect the offspring's gut microbiome postnatally and in early years. In a longitudinal cohort with a five-year follow-up of mother-child pairs affected by preeclampsia (PE) or spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB), we evaluated offspring gut alpha and beta diversity as well as taxa abundances considering factors like breastfeeding and mode of delivery. Our study highlights a trend where microbiome diversity exhibits comparable development across adverse and normal pregnancies. However, specific taxa at genus level emerge with distinctive abundances, showing enrichment and/or depletion over time in relation to PE or sPTB. These findings underscore the potential for certain adverse pregnancy complications to induce alterations in the offspring's microbiome over the course of early life. The implications of these findings on the immediate and long-term health of offspring should be investigated in future studies.

Simulation-based development: shaping clinical procedures for extra-uterine life support technology

BACKGROUND

Research into Artificial Placenta and Artificial Womb (APAW) technology for extremely premature infants (born < 28 weeks of gestation) is currently being conducted in animal studies and shows promising results. Because of the unprecedented nature of a potential treatment and the high-risk and low incidence of occurrence, translation to the human condition is a complex task. Consequently, the obstetric procedure, the act of transferring the infant from the pregnant woman to the APAW system, has not yet been established for human patients. The use of simulation-based user-centered development allows for a safe environment in which protocols and devices can be conceptualized and tested. Our aim is to use participatory design principles in a simulation context, to gain and integrate the user perspectives in the early design phase of a protocol for this novel procedure.

METHODS

Simulation protocols and prototypes were developed using an iterative participatory design approach; usability testing, including general and task-specific feedback, was obtained from participants with clinical expertise from a range of disciplines. The procedure made use of fetal and maternal manikins and included animations and protocol task cards.

RESULTS

Physical simulation with the active participation of clinicians led to the diffusion of tacit knowledge and an iteratively formed shared understanding of the requirements and values that needed to be implemented in the procedure. At each sequel, participant input was translated into simulation protocols and design adjustments.

CONCLUSION

This work demonstrates that simulation-based participatory design can aid in shaping the future of clinical procedure and product development and rehearsing future implementation with healthcare professionals.

Determinants of prelabor rupture of membrane among pregnant women attending governmental hospitals in Jimma zone, Oromia region, Ethiopia: A multi-center case-control study

BACKGROUND

Prelabor rupture of membrane defined as the rupture of fetal membranes before the beginning of uterine contractions, is a common complication of pregnancy and the leading cause of preterm birth. In Ethiopia, the prevalence of prelabor rupture of membrane varied significantly between settings due to variations in risk factors. Besides, there was no study conducted using primary data, particularly in the Jimma zone, Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to identify determinants of prelabor rupture of membrane among pregnant women attending governmental hospitals in the Jimma zone, Oromia region, Ethiopia.

METHODS

An institutional-based unmatched case-control study design was conducted from October 15 to December 15, 2021, at four governmental hospitals. A consecutive sampling technique was used to select 316 participants (79 cases and 237 controls). Women with prelabor rupture of the membrane were confirmed by history, sterile vaginal examination, and ultrasound as cases, and their counterparts as controls. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on maternal (obstetric, medical, behavioral) and fetal-related characteristics. The data were entered into Epi Data version 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics, bi-variable, and multivariable logistic regression were computed. The odds ratio with a 95% confidence level was used, and the significance level was declared at a p-value < 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 316 participants (79 cases and 237 controls) were included in this study. Pregnancy-induced hypertension (AOR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.41-6.64), history of abortion (AOR = 3.67, 95% CI: 1.56-8.65), urinary tract infections (AOR = 2.61, 95% CI: 1.13-6.06), abnormal vaginal discharge (AOR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.21-5.79), maternal khat chewing (AOR = 3.40, 95% CI: 1.70-6.80), mid-upper arm circumference less than 23 cm (AOR = 2.80, 95% CI: 1.51-5.19), and fetal presentation (breech) (AOR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.10-6.28) were determinants of prelabor rupture of membrane among pregnant women.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that the aforementioned factors were found to be determinants of prelabor rupture of membrane among pregnant women. Therefore, hospitals should give focus to the early screening, diagnosis, and treatment of pregnancy-induced hypertension, urinary tract infection, and abnormal vaginal discharge to reduce the burden of prelabor rupture of membranes.

Impact of pre-pregnancy weight on the risk of premature rupture of membranes in Chinese women

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) on the incidence of premature rupture of membranes (PROM) among Chinese women.

Methods

This was a hospital-based retrospective cohort study of 75,760 Chinese women who had live singleton births between 2016 and 2020. In this study, we utilized logistic regression analysis to estimate the association between pre-pregnancy BMI and PROM based on gestational age.

Results

Prior to pregnancy, being overweight or obese was found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), as evidenced by adjusted odds ratios and 95 % confidence intervals of 1.336 (1.173-1.522) and 1.411 (1.064-1.872), respectively. Those with PPROM were divided into three groups according to gestational age: 22-27, 28-31, and 32-36 weeks. Women who were overweight or obese prior to pregnancy had a higher likelihood of experiencing PROM between 22 and 27 weeks of gestation. This finding remained consistent even after controlling for potential confounding factors, such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, hydramnios, cervical abnormalities, and a history of preterm birth.

Conclusion

Our research findings indicate that being overweight or obese before pregnancy is linked to a higher likelihood of experiencing PPROM. Therefore, achieving optimal weight before pregnancy is important to prevent PPROM and its associated complications.

Validation of parental recall questionnaire to classify preterm delivery subtypes: Spontaneous preterm labour, preterm premature rupture of membranes and clinician-initiated preterm delivery

BACKGROUND

Preterm delivery (PTD) includes three main presenting subtypes: spontaneous preterm labour (sPTL), preterm premature rupture of membranes (pPROM) and clinician-initiated preterm delivery (ciPTD). PTD subtype data are rarely available from birth registries and are onerous to derive from medical records.

OBJECTIVES

To develop and test the validity of a questionnaire to classify PTD subtype based on birthing parent recall of labour and delivery events.

METHODS

The questionnaire was sent in 2022 to 581 patients with PTD history documented in the LIFECODES study, a hospital-based birth cohort in Boston, Massachusetts. Eighty-two respondents reported 94 PTDs that could be linked to medical records. Data on PTD subtype were extracted from medical records as the reference standard.

RESULTS

Medical records indicated 47 spontaneous (24 sPTL, 23 pPROM) and 47 ciPTD deliveries occurring a median eight years earlier. The sensitivity and specificity of the recall questionnaire were 88% (95% confidence interval: 68, 97%) and 89% (79, 95%) for sPTL; 96% (78, 100%) and 94% (86, 98%) for pPROM; and 83% (69, 92%) and 100% (92, 100%) for ciPTD, respectively. Greater time since pregnancy did not degrade the sensitivity or specificity of the parental recall questionnaire.

CONCLUSIONS

Although derived from a modest sample, the moderate-to-high sensitivity and specificity of the parental recall questionnaire to classify sPTL, pPROM and ciPTD demonstrates its potential for large studies of PTD and for correction of misclassification bias. Future studies are required to test the questionnaire in a variety of populations.

Risk Factors of Preterm Delivery in the Lao PDR: Hospital-Based Matched Case-Control Study

OBJECTIVE

To describe the risk factors among mothers in four central hospitals and two provincial hospitals in the Lao PDR, a lower-middle-income country in Southeast Asia.

METHOD

The study used a hospital-based matched case-control design study. Purposive sampling was used to select 320 mothers (80 cases and 240 controls) from the six hospitals. Cases were mothers who had delivered a live newborn between 28 and 36 weeks and 6 days, while controls were mothers who had delivered a live newborn within 37 and 40 weeks. Data were collected through a review of medical records and face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Data were entered into EPI info (Version 3.1) then exported to the STATA programme (Version 14) for univariate and conditional multiple logistic regressions to identify risk factors for PTD at p ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

The mean maternal age of cases and controls was 25.2 (SD = 5.33) and 25.8 (SD = 4.37), respectively. In the multivariate analysis, factors with statistically significant relationships with PTD were the mother's religion (AOR: 3.01; 95% CI 1.24-7.26), the number of antenatal care visits (AOR: 3.39; 95% CI 1.6-7.18), having a pre-pregnancy maternal weight of less than 45 kg (AOR: 3.05; 95% CI 1.66-10.5), having had a premature preterm rupture of the membrane (AOR: 7.13; 95% CI 2.44-20.8) and vaginal bleeding during pregnancy (AOR: 6.89; 95% CI 3.02-15.73).

CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE

Improving capacity of the Laotian health system to provide quality ANC and increasing the number of ANC contacts is critical. This requires context specific strategies that also address the socio-economic factors, such as access to a nutritious diet, that contribute to PTD.

Placental pathology findings amongst extremely preterm perinatal deaths in Aotearoa New Zealand

INTRODUCTION

Women of South Asian ethnicity are overrepresented in adverse pregnancy outcomes across high-income countries, including placental dysfunction and antepartum haemorrhage. As the burden of mortality is highest for extremely preterm infants, we aimed to identify any differences in placental pathology among perinatal deaths from 20⁺⁰ to 27⁺⁶ weeks gestation between South Asian, Māori and New Zealand (NZ) European women in Aotearoa NZ, with a focus on women of South Asian ethnicity.

METHODS

Placental pathology reports and clinical data from perinatal deaths between 2008 and 2017 were provided by the NZ Perinatal and Maternal Mortality Review Committee, blinded and analysed by an experienced perinatal pathologist using the Amsterdam Placental Workshop Group Consensus Statement criteria. South Asian ethnicity was classified as Indian, Fijian Indian, South African Indian, Sri Lankan, Pakistani and Bangladeshi.

RESULTS

886 of 1571 placental pathology reports met the inclusion criteria. Women of South Asian ethnicity were significantly more likely to show features of histologic chorioamnionitis (aOR 1.87, 95%CI 1.19-2.94) and chorionic vasculitis (aOR 1.92, 95%CI 1.13-3.29), than NZ European and Māori women respectively. 13 of 15 (87%) of South Asian mothers with a diabetic disorder were identified with chorioamnionitis, compared to 1 in 5 (20%) of Māori and 5 in 12 (41%) of NZ European women. Cord hyper-coiling was also more common among South Asian pregnancies, compared to NZ European (aOR 1.98, 95%CI 1.10-3.56).

DISCUSSION

Differences in placental pathology by ethnicity were observed among extremely preterm perinatal deaths. Underlying metabolic disorders and an associated pro-inflammatory environment may play an important role in the causal pathway leading to these deaths in women of South Asian ethnicity.

First-trimester prediction of preterm prelabour rupture of membranes incorporating cervical length measurement

OBJECTIVES

To examine early pregnancy risk factors for preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) and develop a predictive model.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of a cohort of mixed-risk singleton pregnancies screened in the first and second trimesters in three Danish tertiary fetal medicine centres, including a cervical length measurement at 11-14 weeks, at 19-21 weeks and at 23-24 weeks of gestation. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to identify predictive maternal characteristics, biochemical and sonographic factors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine predictors for the most accurate model.

RESULTS

Of 3477 screened women, 77 (2.2%) had PPROM. Maternal factors predictive of PPROM in univariable analysis were nulliparity (OR 2.0 (95% CI 1.2-3.3)), PAPP-A < 0.5 MoM (OR 2.6 (1.1-6.2)), previous preterm birth (OR 4.2 (1.9-8.9)), previous cervical conization (OR 3.6 (2.0-6.4)) and cervical length ≤ 25 mm on transvaginal imaging (first-trimester OR 15.9 (4.3-59.3)). These factors all remained statistically significant in a multivariable adjusted model with an AUC of 0.72 in the most discriminatory first-trimester model. The detection rate using this model would be approximately 30% at a false-positive rate of 10%. Potential predictors such as bleeding in early pregnancy and pre-existing diabetes mellitus affected very few cases and could not be formally assessed.

CONCLUSIONS

Several maternal characteristics, placental biochemical and sonographic features are predictive of PPROM with moderate discrimination. Larger numbers are required to validate this algorithm and additional biomarkers, not currently used for first-trimester screening, may improve model performance.

A Scoping Review of Preterm Births in Sub-Saharan Africa: Burden, Risk Factors and Outcomes

Preterm births (PTB) are the leading cause of neonatal deaths, the majority of which occur in low- and middle-income countries, particularly those in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Understanding the epidemiology of prematurity is an essential step towards tackling the challenge of PTB in the sub-continent. We performed a scoping review of the burden, predictors and outcomes of PTB in SSA. We searched PubMed, Embase, and three other databases for articles published from the database inception to 10 July 2021. Studies reporting the prevalence of PTB, the associated risk factors, and/or its outcomes were eligible for inclusion in this review. Our literature search identified 4441 publications, but only 181 met the inclusion criteria. Last menstrual period (LMP) was the most commonly used method of estimating gestational age. The prevalence of PTB in SSA ranged from 3.4% to 49.4%. Several risk factors of PTB were identified in this review. The most frequently reported risk factors (i.e., reported in ≥10 studies) were previous history of PTB, underutilization of antenatal care (<4 visits), premature rupture of membrane, maternal age (≤20 or ≥35 years), inter-pregnancy interval, malaria, HIV and hypertension in pregnancy. Premature babies had high rates of hospital admissions, were at risk of poor growth and development, and were also at a high risk of morbidity and mortality. There is a high burden of PTB in SSA. The true burden of PTB is underestimated due to the widespread use of LMP, an unreliable and often inaccurate method for estimating gestational age. The associated risk factors for PTB are mostly modifiable and require an all-inclusive intervention to reduce the burden and improve outcomes in SSA.

The Management of Pregnancy Complicated with the Previable Preterm and Preterm Premature Rupture of the Membranes: What about a Limit of Neonatal Viability?—A Review

Preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) at the limit of viability is associated with low neonatal survival rates and a high rate of neonatal complications in survivors. It carries a major risk of maternal morbidity and mortality. The limit of viability can be defined as the earliest stage of fetal maturity when a fetus has a reasonable chance, although not a high likelihood, for extra-uterine survival. The study reviews available data on preventing preterm delivery caused by the previable PPROM, pregnancy latency, therapeutic options including the use of antibiotics and steroids, neonatal outcomes, and future directions and opportunities.

The Influence of Maternal Factors on Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Admission and In-Hospital Mortality in Premature Newborns from Western Romania: A Population-Based Study

Background and Objectives: Neonatal mortality is a global public health issue, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income nations. Although Romania is a high-income nation, according to the European Union’s most recent demographic data, it had the second-highest infant death rate in 2019. Although significant progress has been made in the last three decades in lowering newborn mortality, more initiatives to accelerate progress are required to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) objective. Therefore, we aimed to develop an observational study to determine the influence of maternal factors on in-hospital neonatal intensive care unit admission and mortality in premature infants born in western Romania. While newborn mortality has decreased globally, the pace of decline is far less than what is desired. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study comprising 328 premature patients and 422 full-term newborns, was developed at a tertiary obstetrics and gynecology clinic in western Romania, comprising the period of the last 24 months before the COVID-19 pandemic and the first 24 months of the pandemic. Results: The following variables were identified as statistically significant risk factors for neonatal intensive care unit admission: age > 35 years, OR = 1.59; twin births, OR = 1.14; low gestational age, OR = 1.66; preeclampsia, OR = 2.33; and peripartum infection, OR = 2.25. The same risk factors, with the exception of twin births, were significantly associated with in-hospital neonatal mortality. Except for a longer duration of maternal hospitalization and neonatal therapy with surfactant, steroids, and antibiotics, the COVID-19 pandemic did not cause significant differences in the evolution and outcomes of preterm newborns. Conclusions: The major maternal risk factors for NICU admission were advanced age, twin pregnancy, low gestational age, preeclampsia, and peripartum infection. Additionally, these characteristics contributed to a high likelihood of death, despite adequate access to medical care and advanced life support for the neonates. Understanding the causes of morbidity and death in neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit enables better prioritization and planning of health services, resource reallocation, and care quality improvement.

Preterm Premature Ruptures of Membrane and Factors Associated among Pregnant Women Admitted in Wolkite Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Gurage Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Introduction

Preterm premature rupture of membrane is the rupture of membrane before 37 weeks of gestational age. It complicates approximately 3 percent of pregnancies and leads to one-third of preterm births. It increases the risk of prematurity and leads to several other perinatal and neonatal complications, including the risk of fetal death. Although the prevalence and associated factors of preterm premature rupture of the membrane were well studied in high-income countries, there is a scarcity of evidence in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area.

Method

A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from 1st June to 30th June 2021 in Wolkite comprehensive specialized hospital. One hundred ninety nine (199) pregnant women were included as study subjects using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. It carried out descriptive statistical analysis and statistical tests like the odds ratio. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted. Statistically, significant tests were declared at a level of p value < 0.05.

Result

The magnitude of preterm premature rupture membrane is 6.6%. Having gestational diabetes mellitus (AOR = 5.99 (95% CI: 1.01, 32.97) and previous history of abortion (AOR = 5.31 (95% CI: 1.06, 26.69) were found to be significantly associated with preterm premature rupture of membrane.

Conclusion

Having gestational diabetes mellitus and having a previous history of abortion were significantly associated with preterm premature rupture of membrane.

Obstetric and neonatal outcomes of gestational diabetes mellitus in twin pregnancies according to changes in its diagnostic criteria from National Diabetes Data Group criteria to Carpenter and Coustan criteria: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

To compare obstetric and neonatal outcomes in twin pregnancies with or without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) before and after changes in GDM diagnostic criteria.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of 1,764 twin pregnancies including 130 women with GDM (GDM group) and 1,634 women without GDM (non-GDM group). Patients with pregestational diabetes, unknown GDM status, and fetal death at < 24 gestational weeks were excluded. Obstetric and neonatal outcomes were compared between the two groups by two periods: period 1 (1995-2005) and period 2 (2005-2018) when National Diabetes Data Group criteria and Carpenter and Coustan criteria were used for diagnosis of GDM, respectively.

RESULTS

The incidence of GDM in twin pregnancies increased from 4.0% in period 1 to 9.3% in period 2. Composite obstetric complications rate was significantly higher in the GDM group than that in the non-GDM group during period 1 (72.0% vs. 45.5%, P = 0.009). However, it became comparable during period 2 (60.0% vs. 57.4%, P = 0.601). Interaction between GDM and period indicated a significant differential effect of GDM by period on the rate of composite obstetric complications. The rate of composite neonatal complications was similar between the two groups during both periods. The interaction between GDM and period was not significant.

CONCLUSION

After changes of GDM diagnostic criteria, the incidence of GDM increased more than twice, and the rate of composite obstetric complications decreased, but the rate of composite neonatal complications did not change significantly.

Biomaterial-based treatments for the prevention of preterm birth after iatrogenic rupture of the fetal membranes

Minimally invasive interventions to ameliorate or correct fetal abnormalities are becoming a clinical reality. However, the iatrogenic premature preterm rupture of the fetal membranes (FMs) (iPPROM), which may result in...

Expectant Management of PPROM Improves Neonatal Outcome-A Retrospective Study of 562 Patients

Prelabor preterm rupture of the membranes (PPROM) refers to the rupture of the membranes before 37 weeks, but also before the onset of labor. Approximately 3% of pregnancies are complicated by PPROM, which is an important cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. The aim of the study is to demonstrate the benefit of expectant management in PPROM, compared to immediate birth, defined in our study as birth in the first 48 h. We analyzed 562 pregnancies with PPROM by gestational age groups and short-term morbidities. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective observational analytical study, which included women with PPROM between 24 + 0 and 36 + 6 weeks. We divided the cohort into gestational age groups: group 1 gestational age (GA) between 24 and 27, group 2 GA between 28 and 31, group 3 GA between 32 and 34, group 4 GA > 35 weeks. In each group, we analyzed the benefit of the latency period (established in our study as delivery after 48 h of hospitalization) in terms of short-term neonatal complications. Result: The latency period brought a significant benefit starting with GA greater than 28 weeks; therefore, in the group with GA between 28–31, the complications were significantly statistically lower, mentioning respiratory distress syndrome (no latency 100% vs. latency 85.1%) and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (no latency 89.7% vs. latency 70.2%). In group 3, with GA between 32–34, we reached statistical significance in terms of respiratory distress syndrome (no latency 61.8% vs. latency 39%), hypoxia (no latency 50% vs. latency 31.7%) and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (no latency 70.2% vs. latency 47.4%). Conclusion: Expectant management of pregnancies with PPROM can bring a real benefit in terms of the incidence of complications in premature infants, but this benefit depends most on the gestational age at which the membranes ruptured and the medical conduct put into practice during the latency period.

Prevalence of premature rupture of membrane and its associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Premature rupture of the membrane is a serious public health problem, especially in low- and middle-income countries with significant maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Despite its substantial contributions to feto-maternal complications, the burden of premature rupture of the membrane was not systematically analyzed in Ethiopia. Hence, this review aimed to identify the burden of premature rupture of the membrane and associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia.

Methods

PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and African journal online databases and Google Scholar were searched for articles published in the English language. Independent review authors selected and screened studies. Appraisal for methodological quality of studies was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute assessment checklist. RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis. The I ² statistical significance and Egger's test were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias, respectively.

Results

The pooled prevalence of premature rupture of the membrane among pregnant women in Ethiopia was 9.2% (95% confidence interval = 5.0, 16.4). Factors significantly associated with premature rupture of the membrane were no antenatal care visit (odds ratio = 2.87, confidence interval = 1.34, 6.14), history of premature rupture of the membrane (odds ratio = 4.09, 95% confidence interval = 2.82, 5.91), history of abortion (odds ratio = 3.13, confidence interval = 1.63, 6.01), abnormal vaginal discharge (odds ratio = 6.78, confidence interval = 4.11, 11.16), and urinary tract infection (odds ratio = 3.04, confidence interval = 1.21, 7.63).

Conclusion

Nearly one in ten pregnancies in Ethiopia encounters premature rupture of the membrane complications. The finding highlights improving antenatal care utilization, thus preventing or treating urinary and reproductive tract infections, and tailored interventions for pregnant women with a history of premature rupture of the membrane or abortion contribute to reduced premature rupture of the membrane.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms from CSF2, FLT1, TFPI and TLR9 Genes Are Associated with Prelabor Rupture of Membranes

A prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM) and its subtypes, preterm PROM (pPROM) and term PROM (tPROM), are associated with disturbances in the hemostatic system and angiogenesis. This study was designed to demonstrate the role of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), localized in CSF2 (rs25881), FLT1 (rs722503), TFPI (C-399T) and TLR9 (rs352140) genes, in PROM. A population of 360 women with singleton pregnancy consisted of 180 PROM cases and 180 healthy controls. A single-SNP analysis showed a similar distribution of genotypes in the studied polymorphisms between the PROM or the pPROM women and the healthy controls. Double-SNP TT variants for CSF2 and FLT1 polymorphisms, CC variants for TLR9 and TFPI SNPs, TTC for CSF2, FLT1 and TLR9 polymorphisms, TTT for FLT1, TLR9 and TFPI SNPs and CCCC and TTTC complex variants for all tested SNPs correlated with an increased risk of PROM after adjusting for APTT, PLT parameters and/or pregnancy disorders. The TCT variants for the CSF2, FLT1 and TLR9 SNPs and the CCTC for the CSF2, FLT1, TLR9 and TFPI polymorphisms correlated with a reduced risk of PROM when corrected by PLT and APTT, respectively. We concluded that the polymorphisms of genes, involved in hemostasis and angiogenesis, contributed to PROM.

Pathophysiological Implication of Pattern Recognition Receptors in Fetal Membranes Rupture: RAGE and NLRP Inflammasome

Preterm prelabor ruptures of fetal membranes (pPROM) are a pregnancy complication responsible for 30% of all preterm births. This pathology currently appears more as a consequence of early and uncontrolled process runaway activation, which is usually implicated in the physiologic rupture at term: inflammation. This phenomenon can be septic but also sterile. In this latter case, the inflammation depends on some specific molecules called “alarmins” or “damage-associated molecular patterns” (DAMPs) that are recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), leading to a microbial-free inflammatory response. Recent data clarify how this activation works and which receptor translates this inflammatory signaling into fetal membranes (FM) to manage a successful rupture after 37 weeks of gestation. In this context, this review focused on two PRRs: the receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) and the NLRP7 inflammasome.

Serum Decorin, Biglycan, and Extracellular Matrix Component Expression in Preterm Birth

Preterm birth is a leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality. Decorin and biglycan are proteoglycans that play key roles in maintaining the connective tissue matrix and tensile strength of human fetal membranes and have been previously linked to PPROM. Extracellular matrix proteins, such as matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (TIMP-1), TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 2 (TIMP-2), and collagen VI (COL-6), have also been linked to PPROM and may have utility in a serum-based screening model for this condition. To define the natural course of serum decorin and biglycan expression throughout the duration of healthy pregnancy, to explore patterns of serum decorin and biglycan expression in serum of asymptomatic women who go on to develop spontaneous preterm labor, and to investigate the potential role for matrix metalloproteinases, their inhibitors, and collagen VI in a serum-based screening model to predict PPROM. Serum decorin level decreases less than 1% per week, and serum biglycan decreases by 2.9% per week over the duration of healthy pregnancy. Serum decorin and biglycan concentrations do not differ in spontaneous preterm labor cases compared with those in controls. Mean concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and COL-6 do not differ in PPROM cases compared with those in controls. We have demonstrated that serum decorin and biglycan concentrations remain stable throughout the duration of normal pregnancy and are not early indicators of preterm labor, while common MMPs, TIMPs, and collagen VI are not early indicators of PPROM.

Maternal features at time of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes and short-term neonatal outcomes

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess if maternal and obstetric characteristics other than gestational age at the time of rupture impact short-term neonatal outcomes.Methods: This is a retrospective observational study from a single tertiary care referral center. This study reviewed women with a singleton pregnancy complicated by preterm prelabor rupture of membranes over a 3-year period from May of 2014 through May of 2017. Maternal characteristics and short term neonatal outcomes were collected.Results: We identified 210 pregnancies complicated by preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Eighteen of these patients had rupture of membranes prior to viability. Of the maternal characteristics at time of admission studied, gestational age at rupture and race influenced short term neonatal outcomes. Women who identified as race other than white had neonates with lower rates of intubation than neonates born to white patients. Gestational age at rupture significantly influenced the neonatal intensive care unit length of stay. Each additional week gained before rupture occurred was associated with a 17.1% decrease in length of stay. Maternal age, gravidity, parity, body mass index, single deepest pocket, and amniotic fluid index did not influence short term neonatal outcomes.Conclusions: Gestational age at rupture of membranes is the most predictive factor associated with short term neonatal outcomes. Race may also influence short term neonatal outcomes. Other maternal characteristics do not seem to influence short term neonatal outcomes. This information can assist with patient counseling on admission for preterm prelabor rupture of membranes and expected neonatal course.

Occurrence of a RAGE-Mediated Inflammatory Response in Human Fetal Membranes

Context:

Sterile inflammation has been shown to play a key role in the rupture of the fetal membranes (FMs). Moreover, an early and exacerbated runaway inflammation can evolve into a preterm premature rupture of membranes and lead to potential preterm birth. In this context, we investigated the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), an axis implied in physiological sterile inflammation, in conjunction with two major ligands: AGEs and High-Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1). Our first objective was to determine the spatiotemporal expression profiles of the different actors of the RAGE-signaling axis in human FMs, including its intracellular adaptors Diaphanous-1 and Myd88. Our second goal was to evaluate the functionality of RAGE signaling in terms of FMs inflammation.

Methods

The presence of the actors (RAGE, HMGB1, Myd88, and Diaphanous-1) at the mRNA level was investigated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in the human amnion and choriodecidua at the three trimesters and at term. Measurements were conducted at two distinct zones: the zone of intact morphology (ZIM) and the zone of altered morphology (ZAM). Then, proteins were quantified using Western blot analysis, and their localization was evaluated by immunofluorescence in term tissues. In addition, pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion was quantified using a Multiplex assay after the treatment of amnion and choriodecidua explants with two RAGE ligands (AGEs and HMGB1) in the absence or presence of a RAGE inhibitor (SAGEs).

Results

The FMs expressed the RAGE-signaling actors throughout pregnancy. At term, RNA and protein overexpression of the RAGE, HMGB1, and Diaphanous-1 were found in the amnion when compared to the choriodecidua, and the RAGE was overexpressed in the ZAM when compared to the ZIM. The two RAGE ligands (AGEs and HMGB1) induced differential cytokine production (IL1β and TNFα) in the amnion and choriodecidua.

Conclusion

Considered together, these results indicate that RAGE signaling is present and functional in human FMs. Our work opens the way to a better understanding of FMs weakening dependent on a RAGE-based sterile inflammation.

Study of sRAGE, HMGB1, AGE, and S100A8/A9 Concentrations in Plasma and in Serum-Extracted Extracellular Vesicles of Pregnant Women With Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes

Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), defined as rupture of fetal membranes prior to 37 weeks of gestation, complicates approximately 2–4% of pregnancies and is responsible for 40% of all spontaneous preterm births. PPROM arises from complex pathophysiological pathways with a key actor: inflammation. Sterile inflammation is a feature of senescence-associated fetal membrane maturity. During specific steps of sterile inflammation, cells also release highly inflammatory damage-associated molecular pattern markers (DAMPs), such as high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) or S100A8/A9, known to link and activate the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). The objective of this study was to measure longitudinally during pregnancy concentrations of the soluble form of RAGE (sRAGE) and its main ligands (AGE, HMGB1, S100A8/A9) in blood specimens. We studied 246 pregnant women (82 with PPROM and 164 matched control pregnant women without complications) from a cohort of 7,866 pregnant women recruited in the first trimester and followed during pregnancy until delivery. sRAGE, AGE, HMGB1, and S100A8/A9 concentrations were measured in plasma and in serum-extracted extracellular vesicles from first trimester (T1), second trimester (T2), and delivery (D). In plasma, we observed, in both PPROM and control groups, (i) a significant increase of HMGB1 concentrations between T1 vs. T2, T1 vs. D, but not between T2 vs. D; (ii) a significant decrease of sRAGE concentrations between T1 and T2 and a significant increase between T2 and D; (iii) a significant decrease of AGE from T1 to D; (iv) no significant variation of S100A8/A9 between trimesters. In intergroup comparisons (PPROM vs. control group), there were no significant differences in time variation taking into account the matching effects. There was a correlation between plasma and serum-extracted extracellular vesicle concentrations of sRAGE, AGE, HMGB1, and S100A8/A9. Our results suggest that the rupture of fetal membranes (physiological or premature) is accompanied by a variation in plasma concentrations of sRAGE, HMGB1, and AGE. The study of RAGE and its main ligands in extracellular vesicles did not give additional insight into the pathophysiological process conducting to PPROM.

Amniotic fluid CD11b levels in pregnancies complicated by preterm prelabor rupture of membranes

Objective: CD11b is an integrin molecule located on the surface of leukocytes. CD11b is involved in the processes of cell adhesion and migration. Expression of CD11b increases during inflammation. Therefore, this study was aimed at the evaluation of concentrations of CD11b in the amniotic fluid from pregnancies complicated by preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes (PPROM), with respect to the presence of microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity (MIAC), intra-amniotic inflammation (IAI), and microbial-associated IAI (the presence of both MIAC and IAI).Methods: Eighty women with singleton pregnancies complicated by PPROM were included. Amniotic fluid samples were obtained by transabdominal amniocentesis. Amniotic fluid CD11b concentrations were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. MIAC was determined by a non-cultivation approach. IAI was defined by a bedside amniotic fluid interleukin-6 concentration ≥745 pg/mL.Result: Women with MIAC or microbial-associated IAI had higher CD11b concentrations in the amniotic fluid than women without these complications (with MIAC: median 0.31 ng/mL versus without MIAC: median 0.17 ng/mL, p = .001; with microbial associated-IAI: median 0.35 ng/mL versus without microbial-associated IAI: median 0.16 ng/mL; p =.02). The presence of IAI was not associated with elevated CD11b concentrations. A weak negative correlation was found between amniotic fluid CD11b concentrations and interleukin-6 concentrations (rho = 0.26; p = .02).Conclusions: MIAC and microbial-associated IAI are characterized by higher amniotic fluid CD11b concentrations in pregnancies complicated by PPROM.

[Effect of different antibiotic use strategies on infection in neonates with premature rupture of membranes and high-risk factors for neonatal infection]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of different antibiotic use strategies on infection in neonates with premature rupture of membranes and the high-risk factors for neonatal infection.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed for the clinical data of 223 neonates with premature rupture of membranes. According to the antibiotic use strategies, they were classified into two groups: study group (n=95) and control group (n=128). The neonates in the study group were given antibiotics based on risk assessment and infection screening, and those in the control group were given antibiotics based on risk assessment alone after admission. General status and prognosis were compared between the two groups. According to the presence or absence of infection, the neonates were classified into two groups: infection group (n=32) and non-infection group (n=191). The clinical data were compared between the two groups. A logistic regression model was used to investigate the high-risk factors for infection in neonates with premature rupture of membranes.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the study group had a significantly longer time of premature rupture of membranes, a significantly higher rate of cesarean section, and a significantly lower antibiotic use rate at admission and a significantly lower total antibiotic use rate (P<0.05). The study group also had a significantly higher incidence rate of infection and a significantly lower incidence rate of sepsis (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in the incidence rates of other complications between the two groups (P>0.05). Compared with the non-infection group, the infection group had a significantly lower gestational age, a significantly longer time of premature rupture of membranes, a significantly higher rate of cesarean section, and significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin on admission and during reexamination (P<0.05), with fever as the most common symptom. The logistic regression analysis showed that preterm birth and cesarean section were high-risk factors for infection in neonates with premature rupture of membranes (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Strict adherence to the indications for antibiotic use in neonates with premature rupture of membranes does not increase the incidence rate of complications. Neonates with premature rupture of membranes, especially preterm infants and infants delivered by cesarean section, should be closely observed for the change in disease conditions, and infection indices including CRP should be reexamined in case of fever and antibiotics should be used to prevent serious infection.

[Effect of different antibiotic use strategies on infection in neonates with premature rupture of membranes and high-risk factors for neonatal infection]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of different antibiotic use strategies on infection in neonates with premature rupture of membranes and the high-risk factors for neonatal infection.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed for the clinical data of 223 neonates with premature rupture of membranes. According to the antibiotic use strategies, they were classified into two groups: study group (n=95) and control group (n=128). The neonates in the study group were given antibiotics based on risk assessment and infection screening, and those in the control group were given antibiotics based on risk assessment alone after admission. General status and prognosis were compared between the two groups. According to the presence or absence of infection, the neonates were classified into two groups: infection group (n=32) and non-infection group (n=191). The clinical data were compared between the two groups. A logistic regression model was used to investigate the high-risk factors for infection in neonates with premature rupture of membranes.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the study group had a significantly longer time of premature rupture of membranes, a significantly higher rate of cesarean section, and a significantly lower antibiotic use rate at admission and a significantly lower total antibiotic use rate (P<0.05). The study group also had a significantly higher incidence rate of infection and a significantly lower incidence rate of sepsis (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in the incidence rates of other complications between the two groups (P>0.05). Compared with the non-infection group, the infection group had a significantly lower gestational age, a significantly longer time of premature rupture of membranes, a significantly higher rate of cesarean section, and significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin on admission and during reexamination (P<0.05), with fever as the most common symptom. The logistic regression analysis showed that preterm birth and cesarean section were high-risk factors for infection in neonates with premature rupture of membranes (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Strict adherence to the indications for antibiotic use in neonates with premature rupture of membranes does not increase the incidence rate of complications. Neonates with premature rupture of membranes, especially preterm infants and infants delivered by cesarean section, should be closely observed for the change in disease conditions, and infection indices including CRP should be reexamined in case of fever and antibiotics should be used to prevent serious infection.