Ureaplasma-Driven Neuroinflammation in Neonates: Assembling the Puzzle Pieces

Ureaplasma species (spp.) are commonly regarded as low-virulence colonizers of the genitourinary tract. Intrauterine Ureaplasma infection, however, has been associated with chorioamnionitis and preterm birth. The overall impact of a neonatal Ureaplasma colonization is yet to be understood. High pathogen prevalence and frequent neurological morbidities particularly in immature preterm infants call for an assessment of the significance of Ureaplasma spp. in neonatal neuroinflammation. This narrative review summarizes clinical data, animal studies, and in vitro results to elucidate potential Ureaplasma-associated neurological morbidities as well as underlying mechanisms. Increasing evidence indicates an involvement of Ureaplasma spp. in invasive central nervous system infections, suggesting a meticulous ability of Ureaplasma spp. to interfere with immune defense mechanisms. Ultimately, Ureaplasma spp. should be considered as relevant pathogens in neonatal neuroinflammation.