Serum Markers with or without Cervical Length for Prediction of Spontaneous Preterm Delivery

Abstract

reterm labor is the presence of regular uterine contractions in combination with cervical changes and intact membranes before 37 completed weeks. Preterm birth is the major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in developed countries. Sequelae of preterm birth are common in the neonatal period, may persist into adulthood and are inversely related to gestational age. Although the pathogenesis of preterm delivery remains unknown, intrauterine infection has emerged as a major cause of preterm delivery. The best source for the detection of intrauterine infection is the amniotic fluid but it is uncertain that amniocentesis improves the outcome of pregnancy in patients with preterm labor. Well-known biomarkers of inflammation such as CRP and leucocyte differential counts in maternal blood have been routinely used in clinical practice to identify risks for spontaneous preterm delivery in patients with preterm labor. A systemic inflammatory response features change in the relative levels of circulating leucocytes: neutrophilia is