Fetal Thymus size as a predictor of chorioamnionitis in women with preterm premature rupture of membranes

Abstract

The aim of study is to Fetal Thymus size as a predictor of chorioamnionitis in women with preterm premature rupture of membranes. 20 patients between 24 and 35 weeks of gestation with preterm PROM were included. Serial ultrasound examinations were performed during the latency period, and measurements of the fetal thymus size were obtained. Small thymus was defined as a thymus perimeter ≤5th percentile according to a fetal thymus nomogram, which was based on measurements of fetuses. Diagnosis of chorioamnionitis was made using neonatal clinical parameters and histological examinations of the placentas. In our study more than 60% patients presented with thymus size below the 5th percentile. Assessment of the decrease in fetal thymus diameter by serial examinations is a promising with preterm premature of rupture of membranes.