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A Murine Model of Fetal Exposure to Maternal Inflammation to Study the Effects of Acute Chorioamnionitis on Newborn Intestinal Development
Published on: June 24, 2020
Chorioamnionitis due to Arcanobacterium haemolyticum
Sonal Saxena1, Charu Aggarwal, Anuradha
1Department of Microbiology, Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi, India.
Abstract:
Clinical chorioamnionitis can result either from the ascending organisms from vagina after rupture of membranes or via the blood stream. This report describes a case of chorioamnionitis caused by Arcanobacterium haemolyticum, an unusual organism associated with this infection. A 19-year-old primigravida at 32 weeks of gestation presented with the complaints of fever, pain in the abdomen, and discharge per vaginum for the past 2 days. Watery, odorless, colorless, and discharge passing intermittently were noticed. A. haemolyticum was isolated from amniotic fluid. Upon induction, a healthy male baby weighing 1.9 kg was delivered. The patient was started on gentamicin and metronidazole for 8 days. Recovery was uneventful. The mother and baby were discharged on ninth day. Chorioamnionitis can result in significant maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. Hence, it is important to ascertain the prompt diagnosis and treatment of suspected cases. Increase in awareness of clinicians and laboratories will reduce misdiagnosis and facilitate appropriate treatment.
Insights
This case report details chorioamnionitis caused by Arcanobacterium haemolyticum, an uncommon pathogen. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this serious pregnancy infection.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Chorioamnionitis is a common intra-amniotic infection, typically caused by ascending vaginal flora or hematogenous spread.
- It poses significant risks for maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are essential for favorable outcomes.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old primigravida at 32 weeks gestation presented with symptoms of chorioamnionitis, including fever and vaginal discharge.
- Arcanobacterium haemolyticum was identified as the causative agent in the amniotic fluid.
- The patient received a course of gentamicin and metronidazole.
Findings:
- A healthy male infant weighing 1.9 kg was delivered following induction of labor.
- The mother experienced an uneventful recovery and was discharged on the ninth postpartum day.
- Isolation of Arcanobacterium haemolyticum highlights the diverse microbial causes of chorioamnionitis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering unusual pathogens in chorioamnionitis diagnosis.
- Increased awareness among clinicians and laboratory personnel can prevent misdiagnosis.
- Timely and accurate identification of causative agents facilitates targeted antimicrobial treatment, improving patient outcomes.
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