Key points are not available for this paper at this time.
Objective: Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is rupture of membranes before 37 weeks of gestation. It is the most common cause associated with preterm labor, accounting for about one-third of preterm births. Osteopontin is a phosphorylated and glycosylated protein consisted of 264-301 amino acids. It is an extracellular matrix member. It has been observed in various biological fluids, epithelial cells, gastrointestinal system secretions, kidneys, thyroid, breast, uterus, placenta and testis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a significant relationship between maternal serum osteopontin levels and PPROM. Also, this study aimed to evaluate the role of osteopontin in the prediction and appropriate management of PPROM. Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic of Dr. Sami Ulus Obstetrics, Gynecology and Pediatrics Training and Research Hospital. The study group consisted of pregnant women who were hospitalized due to PPROM and the control group consisted of healthy pregnant women who were followed up in outpatient clinic. For biochemical analysis, fifteen milliliters venous blood samples were taken from all participants. Plasma Osteopontin and CRP values, and sedimentation rate were measured. Results: A total of 64 pregnant women, 32 patients in each group, were included. Serum leukocyte, sedimentation, C reactive protein and osteopontin levels of pregnant women in the control group were significantly lower than those of participants in the PPROM group. Conclusions: Serum Osteopontin levels increase in patients diagnosed with PPROM. Measuring serum Osteopontin levels may be used as an important marker in the prediction and management of PPROM.
Gunduz et al. (Wed,) studied this question.