• J-C Pasquier and M Doret.
• Département de gynécologie-obstétrique, faculté de médecine, université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Qc J1H 5N4, Canada. jean-charles.pasquier@usherbrooke.ca
• J Gynecol Obst Bio R. 2008 Oct 1;37(6):568-78.

AbstractPreterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) begins a high-risk period for both mother and fetus. This literature review updates the knowledge on latency-period complications and proposed monitoring strategies. Four latency-period complications are described: spontaneous onset of labor, infection (chorioamnionitis), abruptio placentae, and fetal, distress which can be linked to umbilical cord prolapse. Admittedly, the infection/inflammation process plays a key role during the latency period. Conservative management of PPROM is recommended and is associated with significant pregnancy prolongation. This strategy allows a gain in fetal maturity, but increases the risk of complications. The prediction of infection seems to be essential; classical markers, such as blood count and reactive C protein are not very effective. New markers have been tested, with IL-6 appearing to be one of the best infection markers. Fetal pulmonary maturity can be evaluated with a rapid screening test and can yield arguments for the management strategy.

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