Evaluation Of Predictive Accuracy and Clinical Utility of Phosphorylated Insulin Like Growth Factor Binding Protein-1 In Suspected Preterm labor.

Preterm labor is a major contributor to neonatal illness and mortality, particularly in developing countries. Women presenting with symptoms of threatened preterm labor often require hospitalization and treatment; however, many do not deliver preterm. This results in unnecessary interventions, increased healthcare costs, and psychological stress.

Phosphorylated insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (phIGFBP-1) is a biochemical marker released from the decidua when separation of fetal membranes begins prior to labor. Its detection in cervical secretions may help identify women at true risk of imminent preterm delivery.

The present study aims to evaluate the predictive accuracy and clinical utility of bedside phIGFBP-1 testing in pregnant women between 28 and 37 weeks of gestation presenting with symptoms of threatened preterm labor and intact membranes. Participants will be tested using a rapid immunoassay kit and followed to determine delivery outcomes, particularly delivery within seven days of testing.

The findings of this study may help determine whether phIGFBP-1 can serve as a reliable tool to guide clinical decision-making, reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and interventions, and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes in a tertiary care setting.