Antibiotics and the management of preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes

Preterm premature rupture of membranes remains an important cause of preterm birth and neonatal mortality. Although the underlying pathophysiology remains largely undefined, subclinical infection has been implicated both in the mechanism of membrane rupture and the resultant neonatal morbidity. The use of maternal systemic antibiotics reduces both neonatal and maternal morbidity in the expectant management of preterm premature rupture of membranes. Although concern persists over the development of resistant strains of organisms involved with neonatal sepsis, current data support the use of antibiotics in this setting.