CLINICAL IMPLEMENTATION OF A RAPID, AUTOMATED-ASSAY FOR ASSESSING FETAL LUNG MATURITY

We retrospectively determined cutoff levels and implemented the use of the TDxFLx assay in assessing the likelihood or absence of respirator y distress syndrome or fetal lung maturity (FLM) in a high-risk obstet ric setting when compared to the lecithin/sphingomyelin (LIS) ratio an d disaturated lecithin (DSL) measurements. Using a mature TDxFLx cutof f value of greater than or equal to 50 mg/g and an immature cutoff val ue of <20 mg/g, 88% of L/S ratio and DSL measurements could be elimina ted without compromise to the patient. The greater than or equal to 50 mg/g TDxFLx cutoff value resulted in a sensitivity of 100% and specif icity of 88%. We also recommend the use of the TDxFLx assay as a scree ning test in diabetic pregnancies. More timely patient care occurred w hen the rapid TDxFLx assay was implemented by the laboratory and used by clinicians.