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Changing patterns of fetal lung maturity testing

Journal of Perinatology volume 28, pages 20–23 (2008)Cite this article

Abstract

Objective:

In our laboratory, a decrease in fetal lung maturity (FLM) testing on amniotic fluid occurred over a 10-year period, and we desired to determine if this was a national phenomenon and, if present, ascertain possible etiologies.

Study Design:

Society of Maternal–Fetal Medicine fellows, both in academic centers and private practice, were surveyed with regard to current usage of FLM testing.

Result:

Of 680 surveys, 417 (61%) responses were returned and 60% noted a decrease in FLM testing (range of reduction—foam stability index 65%, fluorescence polarization 35%, phosphatidyl glycerol 71%, lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio 70%). The most common reason suggested for the decline is that the tests were not needed for patient management.

Conclusion:

Obstetric patterns of FLM testing have declined, principally in near-term pregnancies, and this could adversely affect neonatal outcome.

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Acknowledgements

This study had no funding source.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA

    K T McGinnis, J A Brown & J C Morrison

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  1. K T McGinnis
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  2. J A Brown
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  3. J C Morrison
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Correspondence to J C Morrison.

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McGinnis, K., Brown, J. & Morrison, J. Changing patterns of fetal lung maturity testing. J Perinatol 28, 20–23 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.jp.7211880

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