title: A meta-analysis of the use of corticosteroids in pregnancies complicated by preterm premature rupture of membranes.
abstract: A systematic review of the literature has been undertaken with regard to the use of corticosteroids in women with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). the benefit of corticosteroids clearly outweighs their potential harmful effects. Antibiotics should probably be included in any management protocol for women with PPROM. There is no reason to suggest that use of corticosteroids in women with PPROM needs to be restricted in developing countries.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Pretoria and Kalafong Hospital.
authors.forename: R C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Pattinson
mesh_terms: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002821:Chorioamnionitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D004716:Endometritis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D020345:Enterocolitis, Necrotizing / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D005322:Premature Rupture of Fetal Membranes / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology; D005325:Fetal Organ Maturity; D006801:Humans; D007226:Infant Mortality; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008168:Lung / Q000196:embryology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D012127:Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn / Q000188:drug therapy; D013019:South Africa / Q000453:epidemiology
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents