Some studies showed increased levels ofproinflammatory cytokines like IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-alpha in the blood samples of pregnant women with PROM (Premature rupture of membranes) and their neonates. The aim of this study was to find a relationship between increased level of IL-8 and PROM, a cost benefit method for early diagnosis and reduction of hospitalization period of neonatal sepsis. This case control study was conducted in Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Al-Zahra Hospital at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran from 10th April 2001 to 20th June 2003. We studied 50 LBW (Low birth weight) neonates born from mothers with PROM as the case group and fifty LBW neonates born from mothers without PROM as our control group Neonates born from pregnant women with PROM underwent sepsis workup and blood samples from their umbilical cord were sent for blood culture and IL-8 level measurement. Mean levels of IL-8 in study and control groups were 128.12 and 39.2 pg mL(-1), respectively. We had no positive blood culture and no bacteria could be isolated. Significantly elevated values (p<0.0003) were showed in cases with PROM compared to cases without PROM (medians 67.5 pg mL(-1) vs. 29.5 pg mL(-1), respectively). This study showed a strong relationship between IL-8 elevation and PROM. Increased levels of IL-8 can be used as indicator for early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.