Studying the Combination of Cervical Interleukins -6 and -8 with Cervical Dilatation in Predicting Preterm Labor

Document Type : Original Article(s)

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences., Isfahan

2 Resident of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan

3 Midwife, Head of Research Office, Shahid Beheshti Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan

Abstract

Background:Some biochemical markers such as FFN (fetal fibronectin), IL1B (interleukin 1B), IL6, and IL8 in cervical mucus have been used to predict preterm delivery. The aim of this study was to assess the combination of two factors (cervical dilatation (1-2cm) with IL6 and IL8 levels) to predict preterm delivery. Methods: This was a prospective follow-up study. The study population consists of normal singleton pregnant women between 24-34 weeks of gestation. Patients divided in two groups: first group had 1-2 cm cervical dilatation and second group had no cervical dilatation. Cervical fluid was sampled from uterus external os and analyzed for IL6 and IL8 with ELIZA in both of groups. Preterm delivery and levels of IL6 and IL8 were assessed. The relation between IL6 and 8 levels and cervical dilatation with preterm delivery was determined. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of IL6 and IL8 and their relation with dilatation and preterm delivery were assessed. Findings:Data analyzed by SPSS-13 software and t-test. IL6 levels have more sensitivity and specificity for preterm delivery. Sensitivity and specificity of cervical dilatation (1-2 cm) and IL6>1.8 pg/ml for predicting preterm delivery were 50% and 65%, respectively. PPV and NPV were 28.6% and 82.4%, respectively. Conclusion:According to review articles, these two variables have not been used for preterm delivery prediction. Low cervical dilatation (1-2cm) had significant relationship with preterm delivery. Combination of cervical dilatation and IL6 can be used for predicting the preterm delivery.   Key words: Interleukins 6 and 8 levels, Preterm delivery, Cervical dilatation.