Role of Lactoferrin in Prevention of Premature Rupture of Membranes

Abstract

Background: The development of the fetal membranes “amnion and chorion” begins with embryogenesis, although they do not have a direct role in the formation of the embryo or fetus. Objective: This study aimed to decrease the morbidities and mortalities resulting from premature rupture of membranes (PROM.). Patients and methods: This was a cohort study conducted on 90 patients at Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Benha University Hospital and Zagazig General Hospital through the period from November 2022 to November 2023. Results: A notable divergence was observed concerning the cervical length, with the first measurement yielding a p-value of 0.005 and the second measurement yielding a p-value of 0.01. Furthermore, a significant disparity was noted in the gestational age at the time of termination, as evidenced by a p-value of 0.029. When evaluating the effectiveness of lactoferrin (LF) in averting membrane rupture, lactoferrin demonstrated a sensitivity of 75.6%, a specificity of 57.8%, and predictive values for positive and negative outcomes of 64.2% and 70.3% respectively, albeit with a non-significant p-value of 0.163. In terms of neonatal vital signs (including pulse rate and respiratory rate) and neonatal weight, no significant differences were discerned, as indicated by p-values of 0.69, 0.545, 0.013, and 0.091, respectively. Conclusion: Augmentation through lactoferrin supplementation presents a conceivable strategy to diminish the incidence of PROM. Additional research is imperative to substantiate the preliminary evidence, which offers a significant conceptual foundation for the prospective utilization of lactoferrin in thwarting preterm childbirth.