Infections in Pregnancy

Question 1

What are the symptoms of chicken pox?

Answer 1

Fever, malaise and vesicular rash

Question 2

What is the period of infectivity of chicken pox?

Answer 2

48hrs before rash develops to once the lesions have crusted over
Normally 5-7 days after rash appears

Question 3

In adults with chicken pox, what conditions are at risk of developing?

Answer 3

Hepatitis, pneumonitis and encephalitis

Question 4

When is foetal infection risk the highest during pregnancy if the mother has chicken pox?

Answer 4

In last 4 weeks
Foetal varicella syndrome can occur

Question 5

What can foetal varicella syndrome cause?

Answer 5

Skin scarring, neuro. abnormalities, congenital eye abnormalities, hypoplasia of ipsilateral limbs and no increased risk of miscarriage

Question 6

How is immunity for chicken pox tested?

Answer 6

Serum IgG test
If positive then offer VZ immunoglobulin ASAP

Question 7

What is the management for chicken pox during pregnancy if mild?

Answer 7

Presents within 24hrs of rash
If under 20 weeks gestation - oral aciclovir
Over 20 weeks gestation - advise symptomatic treatment and hygiene

Question 8

What is the management for chicken pox during pregnancy if severe?

Answer 8

Give IV aciclovir and admit to hospital

Question 9

What can parvovirus B19 also be called?

Answer 9

Slapped cheek disease, fifth disease or erythema infectosum

Question 10

How is parvovirus B19 spread?

Answer 10

By resp. secretions
50% of pregnancy