Perinatal Infections Flashcards
When are perinatal infections most likely to cause harm?
First trimester
What are the most common perinatal infections? (5)
- Toxoplasmosis
- Others
- Rubella
- Cytomegalovirus
- Herpes simplex virus
How is toxoplasmosis contracted? (3)
- Raw / poorly cooked meat
- Unpasteurized goat’s milk
- Infected cat feces
Describe the treatment of toxoplasmosis (2)
- Spiramycin
- Sulfadiazine and Erythromycin after 16 weeks
Describe the treatment of rubella
Prevention - vaccination BEFORE pregnancy (live vaccine - cannot be given during pregnancy)
How is cytomegalovirus transmitted to the fetus?
Crosses placenta - even if mother is asymptomatic
Cytomegalovirus is found in …
All body secretions
What neurologic complications result from cytomegalovirus? (5)
- Auditory deficits
- Cerebral Palsy
- Hydrocephaly
- Microcephaly
- Mental retardation
How is herpes simplex virus transmitted?
Genital tract lesions during birth
How long is the incubation period for herpes simplex virus?
2 - 12 days (2 weeks)
What are the manifestations of herpes simplex virus? (5)
- Fever
- Jaundice
- Seizures
- Poor feeding
- Vesicular lesions
Describe the treatment for mothers with herpes simplex virus
Antiviral therapy - zovirax (Acyclovir)
______ is preferred to prevent transmission of herpes simplex virus during birth
C-section
______ is the leading cause of neonatal sepsis / mortality
Group B streptococcus (GBS)
Where is group B streptococcus (GBS) found? (2)
- GI tract
- GU tract
Carriers of group B streptococcus (GBS) are often ______
Asymptomatic
What complications are associated with group B streptococcus (GBS)? (4)
- Amnionitis
- Premature membrane rupture (water breaking)
- Postpartum endometritis
- Wound infections
Membrane rupture for > 12 - 18 hours can lead to ______
Group B streptococcus (GBS)
Describe the treatment for group B streptococcus (GBS) carriers
Antibiotic prophylaxis at onset of labor
What is the characteristic manifestation of human B19 parvovirus?
“Slapped cheek” rash appearance
Once infected with AIDS, antibodies can be detected by ELISA assay ______ after exposure
6 months
When providing care to a pregnant woman with AIDS, ______ precautions should be implemented
Universal
What are the maternal manifestations of AIDS? (2)
- Fatigue
- Recurring candida vaginitis
When does screening for group B streptococcus (GBS) occur?
35 - 37 weeks
