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Molecular evidence for vertical transmission of listeriosis, Taiwan

Yu-Tsung Huang1, Shee-Uan Chen, Mu-Zon Wu

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taiwan.

Journal of Medical Microbiology
|October 13, 2006
PubMed

Insights

This case study details a pregnant woman and her infant successfully treated for Listeria monocytogenes infection. Identical bacterial DNA profiles confirmed the mother-to-infant transmission of this serious bloodstream infection.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neonatology

Background:

  • Listeria monocytogenes is a significant cause of invasive infections in pregnant women, posing risks to both mother and fetus.
  • Vertical transmission can lead to severe neonatal outcomes, including meningitis and sepsis.

Observation:

  • A 31-week pregnant woman presented with Listeria monocytogenes bacteremia and endometrial microabscesses.
  • Her infant was born with disseminated Listeria monocytogenes infection, manifesting as meningitis and bacteremia.

Findings:

  • Both mother and infant were successfully treated with intravenous ampicillin and gentamicin.
  • Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis revealed identical Listeria monocytogenes profiles in isolates from the mother's blood and the infant's blood and cerebrospinal fluid, confirming vertical transmission.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of Listeria monocytogenes in pregnant women to prevent severe neonatal complications.
  • Effective antibiotic regimens, such as ampicillin and gentamicin, can successfully manage both maternal and neonatal infections.
  • Molecular typing is crucial for confirming the source and transmission pathway of infectious agents in obstetric and neonatal cases.

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