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Unexpected disseminated herpes simplex infection in a newborn
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|December 1, 1977
Summary
Disseminated herpes simplex virus type 2 infection was found in a newborn despite the mother showing no genital lesions. This suggests an ascending infection occurred before birth, leading to chorioamnionitis.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal infections
- Virology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) can cause neonatal infections.
- Maternal genital lesions are a known risk factor for neonatal HSV-2 transmission.
Observation:
- A neonate delivered via cesarean section at 36 weeks gestation presented with disseminated HSV-2.
- The mother had no visible orogenital lesions during prenatal examinations.
- The placenta showed evidence of chorioamnionitis.
Findings:
- Disseminated HSV-2 infection in the neonate.
- Chorioamnionitis indicated an ascending infection from the maternal genital tract.
- The absence of maternal lesions complicates the typical understanding of HSV-2 transmission routes.
Implications:
- Ascending HSV-2 infection can occur even without overt maternal lesions.
- This case highlights the need for vigilance in diagnosing neonatal herpes.
- Further research into subclinical maternal shedding and transmission is warranted.