N terminal-pro brain natriuretic peptide in fetal umbilical cord meconium-stained amniotic fluid: A prospective case control study

Abstract

Purpose of investigation: To evaluate the value of N terminal-pro brain natriuretic peptide (NTpBNP) levels in fetuses with meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF). Materials and Methods: In this case control study, of 36 fetuses, 19 had MSAF and 17 had normal, as controls. The blood samples were taken from the fetal umbilical cord just after birth to measure NTpBNP levels. Results: Mean NTpBNP values were 1.01 ± 0.49 ng/ml in the patient group and 1.70 ± 0.93 ng/ml in the control group. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (p = 0.01) and power was 78% at 95% confidence interval. Conclusion: Serum NTpBNP levels were decreased in the study group. The result suggests that NTpBNP may be a valuable marker for fetuses with MSAF.