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Published on: September 20, 2018

Congenital coxsackievirus B5 infection: report of one case

Yu-Hsuan Kao1, Han-Yang Hung, Hsin Chi

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. evakao@ms1.mmh.org.tw

Acta Paediatrica Taiwanica = Taiwan Er Ke Yi Xue Hui Za Zhi
|April 28, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Congenital enterovirus (EV) infections can be fatal in newborns. This case highlights transplacental transmission of coxsackievirus B5, emphasizing maternal antibody importance in neonatal EV outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Enterovirus (EV) infections are common in children, but can cause severe, fatal outcomes in neonates, including myocarditis, encephalitis, and hepatitis.
  • Transplacental transmission of enteroviruses is possible but infrequently documented.
  • Maternal antibodies play a crucial role in protecting neonates against enterovirus infections.

Observation:

  • A fatal case of congenital coxsackievirus B5 infection in a neonate is presented.
  • The virus was confirmed by culture from the infant and mother's throat swabs.
  • The mother experienced a febrile illness prior to delivery, and the newborn exhibited fever immediately after birth via cesarean section.

Findings:

  • This case provides evidence of transplacental transmission of coxsackievirus B5.
  • The infant's illness and death occurred despite the absence of documented fetal distress until near delivery.
  • The co-infection of the mother and sibling suggests a potential source of transmission.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the potential for severe congenital enterovirus infections and the importance of considering maternal and sibling infections as sources.
  • Further research into the mechanisms and prevention of transplacental enterovirus transmission is warranted.
  • Understanding the role of maternal antibodies is critical for managing and preventing neonatal enterovirus infections.

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