Rubella and pregnancy Flashcards
Rubella (german measles)
Togavirus
Rare due to MMR
Risk of congenital rubella syndrome if contracted during pregnancy
Incubation period 14-21 days. Individuals are infectious from 7 days before appearance of rash to 4 days after.
Risk
First 8-10 weeks risk of damage to fetus is 90%
Damage is rare after 16 weeks
Features of congenital rubella syndrome
Sensorineural deafness Congenital cataracts Congenital heart disease e.g. PDA Growth retardation Hepatosplenomegaly Purpuric skin lesions 'Salt and pepper' chorioretinitis Microphthalmia Cerebral palsy
Diagnosis
Suspected cases should be discussed immediately with local Health Protection Unit
IgM antibodies raised in women recently exposed
Difficult to differentiate between rubella and Parvovirus b19 - check serology of this too
Management
Rubella immunity not routinely checked during booking visit
Advised to stay away from people with rubella
Offer MMR vaccine in post-natal period