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[Fever during labor. Study of 89 cases]
P Poulain1, J C Palaric, J R Giraud
1Service de Gyncologie-Obstérique, Hôtel-Dieu, Rennes.
Summary
Maternal fever during labor is linked to increased risks for neonates, including premature rupture of membranes and bacterial infections. Predictive signs for neonatal infection include maternal temperature >38.4°C, fetal heart rate >160, and low Apgar scores.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Maternal intrapartum fever is a clinical concern with potential neonatal implications.
- This study retrospectively analyzed neonates born to mothers with elevated temperatures during labor.
Purpose:
- To identify potential predictive signs of neonatal infections in labor and delivery.
- To characterize the frequency of adverse outcomes and causative pathogens in neonates exposed to maternal fever.
Summary:
- The study included 91 neonates born to mothers with intrapartum fever (>37.9°C).
- High rates of premature rupture of membranes (44%), low gestational age (25%), and operative deliveries (60%) were observed.
- Bacterial infections, including Group B Streptococcus and E. coli, were diagnosed in 32% of neonates requiring hospitalization, with four cases of septicemia and five with neurological abnormalities.
Impact:
- Identified significant predictive factors for neonatal infection: maternal temperature >38.4°C, fetal heart rate >160 bpm, and low Apgar score at 1 minute.
- Highlights the need for vigilant monitoring and prompt intervention for neonates born to febrile mothers.
- Informs clinical practice regarding risk assessment and management of intrapartum fever complications.