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Capnocytophaga species: a cause of amniotic fluid infection and preterm labour
1Department of Microbiology, Queen Victoria Hospital, Adelaide.
Abstract:
Subclinical amniotic fluid infection and subsequent preterm labour may occur with intact membranes. We report two cases of subclinical amniotic fluid infection with intact membranes presenting in preterm labour. Capnocytophaga species, fastidious Gram-negative bacilli normally found in oral flora, were isolated in pure culture from amniotic fluid obtained by transabdominal amniocentesis. The distinctive microbiological features and spectrum of infections associated with Capnocytophaga species, and the importance of recognition of subclinical amniotic fluid infection as a cause of preterm labour, are discussed.
Insights
Subclinical amniotic fluid infection can cause preterm labor even with intact membranes. This study identifies Capnocytophaga species as a cause, highlighting the need for early recognition.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Subclinical amniotic fluid infection is a recognized cause of preterm labor.
- Infections with intact membranes can lead to premature delivery.
- Capnocytophaga species are fastidious Gram-negative bacilli typically found in oral flora.
Observation:
- Two cases of subclinical amniotic fluid infection with intact membranes presenting in preterm labor were reported.
- Transabdominal amniocentesis was used to obtain amniotic fluid samples.
- Pure cultures of Capnocytophaga species were isolated from the amniotic fluid.
Findings:
- Capnocytophaga species were identified as the causative agent in these cases of subclinical amniotic fluid infection.
- The microbiological features of Capnocytophaga infections were distinct.
- Subclinical infection was linked to preterm labor despite intact membranes.
Implications:
- Recognition of subclinical amniotic fluid infection is crucial for managing preterm labor.
- Understanding Capnocytophaga species' role in obstetric infections is important.
- This highlights the need for microbiological investigation in unexplained preterm labor cases.