C-reactive protein as a predictor for chorioamnionitis in preterm labor

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the maternal C-reactive protein (CRP) values and the microbiologic, histologic occult infection of the chorioamniotic membranes in preterm labor patients in order to determine the patients at risk for preterm birth. STUDY DESIGN: Blood samples for serum CRP determinations were obtained on admission and sterile chorioamniotic membranes were sampled during labor from 60 patients with preterm labor and 100 patients in labor at term. RESULTS: In the preterm labor group, there was a positive correlation between the histologic chorioamniotis and positive C-reactive protein levels. The relationship between the microbiologic infection and'the CRP levels were not significant and this can be attributed to the lack of the detailed culture mediums for the investigation of all the microorganisms that contribute chorioamnion infection. CRP levels were always positive when both histologic and microbiologic infection were present. In patients; whose CRP values were negative, no occult chorioamnion infection was also found. CONCLUSION: The sensitivity and negative predictive value of CRP was statistically significant in predicting the occult chrioamnion infection in preterm labor patients. In these patients with positive CRP levels, with antibiotic therapy and tocolysis, mortality and morbidity related to the preterm birth can be reduced. (Gynecol Obstet Reprod Med 1997; 3:326-330)