Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026
10:32
Transvaginal Mesh Insertion in the Ovine Model
Published on: July 27, 2017
16.2K
Vernix caseosa peritonitis after vaginal delivery.
Shameema A Sadath1, Fathiya I Abo Diba, Surendra Nayak
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternity Hospital, Kuwait.
Clinical Medicine Insights. Case Reports
|October 24, 2013
Summary
Vernix caseosa peritonitis (VCP), a rare complication, is typically seen after cesarean sections. This case highlights VCP occurring for the first time after vaginal delivery, expanding its known associations.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Vernix caseosa peritonitis (VCP) is an uncommon inflammatory condition resulting from amniotic fluid in the maternal peritoneum.
- Previously, all reported cases (27) occurred exclusively after cesarean sections.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old woman presented with acute abdomen, fever, and distension three hours post-vaginal delivery via vacuum extraction.
- Laparotomy revealed turbid fluid and vernix caseosa material in the peritoneal cavity, with no signs of uterine rupture.
Findings:
- Histological examination of peritoneal fluid and tissue confirmed the diagnosis of Vernix caseosa peritonitis (VCP).
- The patient recovered fully after antibiotic treatment.
Implications:
- This case suggests VCP can occur following vaginal delivery, challenging previous assumptions.
- Clinicians should consider VCP in postpartum patients with acute abdomen, irrespective of delivery mode.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Development of the Oral Microbiota
75
The establishment of the oral microbiome begins before birth, challenging the long-held belief that the fetal oral cavity is sterile. The presence of oral microbes such as Streptococcus and Fusobacterium in amniotic fluid suggests that microbial exposure may occur in utero, potentially through translocation from the maternal oral or gastrointestinal tract. This early colonization primes the neonatal immune system and sets the stage for subsequent microbial succession. Maternal health,...
75
01:07Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
78
Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
78
01:26Vagina
64.2K
The vaginal canal is a tubular structure averaging about 10 cm in length that acts as the entryway to the female reproductive system and the passageway for menstrual flow and childbirth. The interior walls of the vagina exhibit concentric folds called rugae and are topped by an area known as the fornix, which connects with the protruding cervical portion of the uterus. This canal is comprised of an external fibrous layer, a muscular middle layer, and an inner lining with mucosal rugae, which...
64.2K
01:21Peritoneum
12.9K
The peritoneum is a vital membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers most of the organs within it. It plays a crucial role in protecting the organs, providing a smooth surface for their movement, and facilitating various physiological processes. Understanding the anatomy and function of the peritoneum is essential for comprehending the complexities of the abdominal region.
Anatomy of the Peritoneum
The peritoneum is divided into two layers: the parietal peritoneum and the visceral...
Anatomy of the Peritoneum
The peritoneum is divided into two layers: the parietal peritoneum and the visceral...
12.9K
01:30Development of Human Microbiota
73
The human microbiota begins developing at birth and undergoes continual change as we age. Infancy marks a critical period of microbial sensitivity, offering a “window of opportunity” during which beneficial microbes help mature the immune system. By age three, children typically develop a more stable and diverse microbial community. Newborns acquire microbes from their immediate environment; vaginal delivery favors maternal vaginal microbes, while cesarean births favor microbes from...
73