Strip test for bedside detection of interleukin-6 in cervical secretions is predictive for impending preterm delivery

Inflammatory cytokines in amniotic fluid are markers of prematurity which c ould characterize preterm labour of infectious origin. To avoid amniocentes is, we analyzed IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-13 by RT-PCR in cervical secretio ns (CS) of 307 women with preterm labour. IL-6 was detected in 26.3% patien ts who delivered at less than 34 weeks (specificity: 95.8%), In addition, I L-6 was associated with delivery within 7 days (specificity: 91.6%). To ren der the detection more rapid and cheaper, a strip test was designed and eva luated comparatively with RT-PCR in 76 women. This bedside strip test was t wice more sensitive than RT-PCR, with little decrease in specificity.