Determination of Factors Affecting the Latent Period of Periviable Premature Rupture of Membranes: Cases and Evaluation of Newborn Outcomes

Abstract

Background

This study aimed to determine factors influencing the latent period in pregnant women with periviable preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) between 22 and 26 weeks of gestation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 106 pregnant women who delivered at our hospital between 2017 and 2021 was conducted. Diagnosis was confirmed using sterile speculum examination or the AmniSure test. Standard treatment included antibiotics, steroids, and tocolytic therapy. Maternal and fetal data, including C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, hemogram parameters, birth weight, and APGAR (Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration) scores, were collected from medical records.

Results

A statistically significant difference was observed between CRP levels and the latent period. Patients with negative CRP values (< 5 mg/L) had a longer latent period (18.9 ± 17.05 days) compared with those with positive CRP values (> 5 mg/L, 8.47 ± 17.07 days). Chorioamnionitis was detected in 8 of 31 newborns, with a significant association between chorioamnionitis and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) (p = 0.043).

Conclusion

PPROM poses significant maternal and neonatal risks, with the latent period directly impacting outcomes. Elevated CRP levels at admission were linked to shorter latency (p < 0.05), while tocolytic therapy prolonged latency without improving neonatal outcomes. The association between chorioamnionitis and NEC (p = 0.043) highlights the importance of early identification and management of risk factors. Individualized treatment with tocolytics, antibiotics, and corticosteroids is essential to optimize maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Keywords

preterm premature rupture of membranes - latent period - chorioamnionitis - respiratory distress syndrome

Availability of Data and Materials

All data and materials are available on reasonable request from the corresponding author.

Authors' Contributions

All authors read and approved the final manuscript. All authors contributed to editorial changes in the manuscript. All authors have participated sufficiently in the work and agreed to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Ethical Approval

All subjects gave their informed consent for inclusion before they participated in the study. The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of İzmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital with the decision number 2021/10–29.

Publication History

Article published online:
10 July 2025

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