Related Experiment Videos
Nonsyphilitic spirochetosis in second-trimester fetuses
C Abramowsky1, P Beyer-Patterson, E Cortinas
1Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75235.
Pediatric Pathology
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Congenital gastrointestinal spirochetal infections may cause spontaneous abortion in adolescents. Spirochetes were found in fetal intestines and placentas, distinct from known pathogens like Treponema pallidum.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal pathology
- Microbiology
- Infectious diseases
Background:
- Spirochetal infections can affect pregnancy outcomes.
- Congenital infections pose risks to fetal development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of spontaneous abortions in young women.
- To identify and characterize microorganisms found in aborted fetuses and placentas.
Main Methods:
- Microscopic examination (light and ultrastructural) of fetal tissues and placentas.
- Immunohistochemical staining for Treponema pallidum.
- Serologic testing for syphilis in mothers.
Main Results:
- Spirochetal microorganisms were identified in fetal intestinal tracts and placentas.
- The spirochetes were morphologically distinct from Treponema pallidum and did not react with anti-T. pallidum antibodies.
- Mothers tested nonreactive for syphilis; other spirochetal infections were ruled out.
- Fetal tissues showed inflammatory responses; placentas exhibited chorioamnionitis and villitis.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest a congenital infection with a gastrointestinal spirochetal species.
- Infection likely occurred via ascending transamniotic route, affecting the fetal intestinal tract and placenta.
- This highlights a potential cause of spontaneous abortion in adolescent pregnancies.