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Updated: May 17, 2026
08:50
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
Acute chorioamnionitis at term caused by the oral pathogen Fusobacterium nucleatum
Justin C Bohrer1, Lori E Kamemoto, Pamela G Almeida
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Hawai'i John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI, USA. justin.bohrer.md@gmail.com
Summary
Fusobacterium nucleatum, an oral bacterium, can cause severe intrauterine infections and maternal sepsis even in term pregnancies. This challenges the notion that it only significantly impacts preterm birth outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Obstetrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fusobacterium nucleatum is a known oral pathogen implicated in periodontal disease.
- This bacterium has been previously associated with preterm birth complications.
Observation:
- A case of acute chorioamnionitis is presented in a term patient with intact membranes.
- The infection rapidly progressed to severe maternal sepsis.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates Fusobacterium nucleatum can cause severe intrauterine infections at term.
- Intrauterine Fusobacterium nucleatum infection can lead to significant maternal morbidity.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for severe maternal sepsis from Fusobacterium nucleatum at term.
- Broadens the understanding of Fusobacterium nucleatum's pathogenic potential in pregnancy.
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