Abstract

LOPEZ-OSMA, Fernando Augusto  and  ORDONEZ-SANCHEZ, Sergio Alexander. Premature rupture of fetal membranes: from the physiopathology to the early markers of the disease. Rev Colomb Obstet Ginecol [online]. 2006, vol.57, n.4, pp.279-290. ISSN 0034-7434.

Premature rupture of fetal membranes (PRFM) is defined as the rupturing of the placental membranes before the beginning of labor. The rupture is considered premature when it occurs before 37 weeks of gestation. It is defined as preterm premature rupture of fetal membranes and is known to increase maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Current evidence suggests that it is a multifactorial process that can be affected by biochemical, physiologic, pathologic and environmental factors. Due to the identification of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases with their possible mechanisms of action, we now have a better understanding of the physiopathology of the disease. Many factors have been associated with premature rupture of fetal membranes. Intra-amniotic infection is one of the causes of prematurity and premature rupture of fetal membranes for which a cause-effect relationship has been described. Novel research published in the last few years and evaluation of new diagnostic techniques for the PRFM and premature birth overall hold a promise that in the near future early diagnosis and prevention of this prenatal complication might be possible.

Keywords : fetal membranes; premature rupture; metalloproteinase; tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases; chorioamnionitis; amniotic fluid.

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