Infections in Pregnancy Flashcards
What can rubella infection cause?
Congenital rubella syndrome
When does rubella cause congenital rubella syndrome?
If infected before 20 weeks gestation
How can congenital rubella syndrome be prevented?
Ensure MMR received prior to pregnancy
What are features of congenital rubella syndrome?
Deafness
Cataracts
Congenital heart disease
Learning difficulties
How should varicella exposure be investigated during pregnancy?
Ask about exposure prior to pregnancy
Check for varicella antibodies
How should varicella exposure before 20 weeks be managed?
Varicella-zoster immunoglobulin asap
How should varicella exposure after 20 weeks be managed?
Varicella-zoster immunoglobulin
OR
PO aciclovir
How should varicella infection >20 weeks be managed?
PO aciclovir
What are fetal risks of varicella in pregnancy?
<20 weeks = fetal varicella syndrome
- skin scarring
- eye defects
- limb hypoplasia
- microcephaly
Shingles in infancy
Severe neonatal varicella
What type of organism is listeria?
Gram negative bacteria
What foods are listeria found in?
Unpasteurised dairy products
Processed meats
Contaminated foods
How does listeria present in the mother?
Flu-like illness
What is the fetal risk of listeria infection?
Increased risk of miscarriage/fetal death
What are the fetal risks of parvovirus B19?
Miscarriage
Fetal anaemia
Hydrops fetalis
How does parvovirus B19 cause fetal anaemia?
Infection of erythroid progenitor cells
Reduced red blood cell production
