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Genital mycoplasmas in placental infections

A Stein1, L Boubli, B Blanc

  • 1Laboratoire de Microbiologie Clinique Hôpital de la Conception, Marseille, France.

Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology
|January 1, 1994
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Genital mycoplasmas, such as Ureaplasma urealyticum, can infect the placenta, causing chorioamnionitis. This placental infection is linked to pregnancy complications, including preterm birth and adverse outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive infectious diseases
  • Microbiology of pregnancy
  • Placental pathology

Background:

  • Genital mycoplasmas (Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma hominis) are common lower genital tract colonizers, leading to controversy regarding their role in pregnancy complications.
  • Distinguishing true placental infection from vaginal contamination is crucial, with placental culture being a key method.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence of genital mycoplasmas, bacteria, and fungi in human placentas.
  • To evaluate the association between placental microorganisms and pregnancy morbidity/mortality.

Main Methods:

  • Placental cultures were performed on 82 women with complicated pregnancies and 100 controls with uncomplicated pregnancies.
  • Histological examination for chorioamnionitis was conducted when feasible.

Main Results:

  • Microorganisms were detected in 52% of placentas from complicated pregnancies, with Ureaplasma urealyticum being the most frequent isolate.
  • A significant association was observed between positive placental mycoplasma cultures and pregnancy complications.
  • Chorioamnionitis showed a positive correlation with mycoplasma isolation.

Conclusions:

  • Genital mycoplasmas can infect the human placenta, leading to chorioamnionitis.
  • Placental infection by genital mycoplasmas is associated with preterm birth and fatal pregnancy outcomes.

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