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Ureaplasma species: role in neonatal morbidities and outcomes

Rose Marie Viscardi1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, , Baltimore, Maryland, USA.

Archives of Disease in Childhood. Fetal and Neonatal Edition
|August 21, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Genital mycoplasma species, Ureaplasma parvum and Ureaplasma urealyticum, are linked to preterm birth and infant morbidities. These common pathogens affect nearly half of very preterm infants, contributing to serious health issues.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Neonatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Genital mycoplasma species, Ureaplasma parvum and Ureaplasma urealyticum, are frequently found in amniotic fluid and placentas.
  • These bacteria are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and neonatal complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review epidemiological and experimental evidence linking perinatal Ureaplasma exposure to morbidities of prematurity.
  • To highlight the prevalence of Ureaplasma in preterm infants and its role as a common pathogen.

Main Methods:

  • Review of epidemiological studies.
  • Analysis of experimental evidence.
  • Examination of clinical data from preterm infants.

Main Results:

  • Ureaplasma species are the most common organisms in infected amniotic fluid and placentas.
  • Nearly 50% of preterm infants (<32 weeks gestation) in the institution are Ureaplasma-positive in various body compartments.
  • Evidence links perinatal Ureaplasma exposure to bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, and necrotizing enterocolitis.

Conclusions:

  • Ureaplasma species are significant contributors to adverse pregnancy outcomes and neonatal morbidities.
  • These pathogens represent a major threat to the health of preterm infants.
  • Further research is warranted to understand and mitigate the impact of Ureaplasma in perinatal infections.
Keywords:
Bronchopulmonary DysplasiaIntraventricular HemorrhageNeonatologyUreaplasma ParvumUreaplasma Urealyticum

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