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Test Code LAB287 Fetal Fibronectin

Important Note

Obtain a collection swab and vial of buffer solution from the lab

Container Name

CALL LAB - for FFN collection swab and buffer solution

Day(s) and Time(s) Test Performed

Monday through Sunday; Continuously

List Price

$437.00

CPT Codes

82731

Temperature

Ambient

Clinical and Interpretive

  • Rapid fFN testing is used for the detection of fetal fibronectin in cervicovaginal secretions to rapidly assess the risk of preterm delivery. 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.
  • Rapid fFN testing should not be used for symptomatic women with one or more of the following conditions:
    • Advanced cervical dilation (≥ 3 centimeters)
    • Rupture of amniotic membranes
    • Cervical cerclage
    • Moderate or gross vaginal bleeding
  • Rapid fFN testing should not be used for asymptomatic women with one or more of the following conditions:
    • Multiple gestations, e.g., twins
    • Cervical cerclage
    • Placenta previa (partial or complete)
    • Sexual intercourse in the preceding 24 hours

 

Specimen Stability

Ambient - 8 hours

2-8 Degrees C - 3 days

Frozen - 3 months

Limitations

  • Specimens should be collected prior to digital examination or manipulation of the cervix.
    • Manipulation of the cervix may lead to a false-positive result.
  • Patients with suspected or known placental abruption, placenta previa or moderate or gross vaginal bleeding should not be tested.
  • The assay has been optimized with specimens collected from the posterior fornix of the vagina or the ectocervical region of the external cervical os. Specimens obtained from other locations should not be used.
  • Assay interference from the following components has not been ruled out:
    • Douches
    • White blood cells
    • Red blood cells
    • Bacteria
    • Bilirubin
    • Semen – Specimens should not be collected less than 24 hours after intercourse
      • If a patient reports having had intercourse in the previous 24 hours, a negative fetal fibronectin test result is valid.
  • A positive fFN result may be observed in patients who have experienced cervical disruption caused by, but not limited to, events such as:
    • Sexual intercourse
    • Digital cervical examination
    • Vaginal probe ultrasound
  • The Rapid fFN result should always be used in conjunction with information available from the clinical evaluation of the patient and other diagnostic procedures such as:
    • Cervical examination
    • Cervical microbiological culture
    • Assessment of uterine activity
    • Evaluation of other risk factors