Abstract
Introduction: Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is an uncommon complication of pregnancy and is associated with neonatal lung disease and high mortality. Long-term pulmonary consequences are unknown.
Aim: To assess lung function in children born after pregnancies complicated by PPROM.
Methods: Lung function was examined in children born at Haukeland University Hospital in Norway during 1999-2005 with PPROM before 20 weeks' gestation and of at least 2 weeks' duration, and in controls born after a pregnancy with intact membranes and matched for gestational age (GA) and postnatal age.
Results: Of 18 PPROM infants, 5 died and 11/13 survivors were examined. Mean (range) GA and weight at birth were 28.0 (25-32) vs. 28.8 (25-33) weeks and 1194 (680-1694) vs. 1238 (650-1830) grams for the PPROM vs. control group, and mean (range) age at examination was 10.3 (7.5-13.3) vs. 10.4 (7.9-13.3) years. There were no significant differences in any of the variables listed in the Table.
Conclusion: Lung function in childhood of survivors of pregnancies complicated by PPROM was similar to that of controls born at the same GA.
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