FETAL FIBRONECTIN SEMI QUANT

FFN

Hologic Specimen Collection Kit

1. During a speculum examination, prior to any examination or manipulation of the cervix or the vaginal tract, lightly rotate the sterile swab across the posterior fornix of the vagina for approximately 10 seconds to absorb cervicovaginal secretions.
2. Once the specimen is obtained, immerse the tip in the tube of buffer provided with the Specimen Collection Kit.
3. Break the shaft (at the score) even with the top of the tube. Align the shaft with the hole inside the tube cap and push down tightly over the shaft, sealing the tube.
4. Write the patient's name and any other identifying information required on the specimen transport tube label.

Specimens that are not tested within eight (8) hours of collection must be stored refrigerated at 2 to 8C and assayed within three (3) days of collection to avoid degradation of fetal fibronectin. Store appropriately and avoid extreme temperatures.

Fetal fibronectin can be detected in cervicovaginal secretions of women throughout pregnancy by use of a monoclonal antibody-based immunoassay. Fetal fibronectin is elevated in cervicovaginal secretions during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy but is diminished between 24 and 34 weeks in normal pregnancies. The significance of its presence in the vagina during first 24 weeks of pregnancy is not understood. However, it may simply reflect the normal growth of the extravillous trophoblast population and the placenta. Detection of fFN in cervicovaginal secretions between 24 and 34 completed weeks gestation is reported to be associated with preterm delivery in symptomatic and asymptomatic pregnant women.