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Ex Vivo Infection of Murine Epidermis with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Published on: August 24, 2015
Herpes simplex virus infection in pregnancy
Gianluca Straface1, Alessia Selmin, Vincenzo Zanardo
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Policlinico Abano Terme, 35031 Abano Terme (PD), Italy. gianluca.straface@casacura.it
Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology
|May 9, 2012
Summary
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection in pregnant women can lead to serious neonatal complications. Management strategies and antiviral treatments can significantly decrease maternal-fetal-neonatal HSV transmission risks.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Herpes simplex is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection, particularly among women of reproductive age.
- Maternal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection poses a significant risk for fetal and neonatal transmission, potentially causing severe health outcomes.
- Neonatal herpes is a serious condition that can result in death or long-term disabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for managing herpes simplex infections during pregnancy.
- To outline strategies for preventing mother-to-fetus and mother-to-newborn transmission of HSV.
- To inform healthcare providers on optimal care for pregnant women with HSV.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on herpes simplex virus in pregnancy.
- Analysis of transmission risks and clinical outcomes.
- Synthesis of management guidelines and prevention strategies.
Main Results:
- The highest risk for fetal/neonatal transmission occurs with primary maternal HSV infection in the latter half of pregnancy.
- Antiviral therapy and, in select cases, cesarean delivery can reduce transmission rates.
- Effective management protocols are crucial for improving neonatal outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Implementing targeted management strategies is essential for mitigating the risks associated with maternal HSV infection.
- Preventing primary HSV infection in late pregnancy and managing active lesions are key to reducing neonatal herpes.
- Adherence to recommended guidelines can significantly decrease the incidence and severity of maternal-fetal-neonatal herpes simplex transmission.
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