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Pregnancy complicated by psittacosis acquired from sheep
British Medical Journal (Clinical Research Ed.)
|April 17, 1982
Summary
Chlamydial infections in pregnant women can be contracted from sheep with enzootic abortion. Early delivery may be crucial for managing suspected cases to prevent severe complications like disseminated intravascular coagulation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Human Obstetrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Chlamydial infections, specifically enzootic abortion in ewes, can pose risks to pregnant women.
- Zoonotic transmission of Chlamydia from sheep to humans is a potential concern, particularly for those in agricultural settings.
Observation:
- Two cases of pregnant women presenting with febrile illness after lambing are detailed.
- One case was serologically confirmed Chlamydia infection, while the second was suspected, both likely acquired from infected sheep.
Findings:
- Both patients developed disseminated intravascular coagulation, a serious complication.
- The first patient, delivered via cesarean section, recovered; the second patient experienced fetal demise and maternal death.
Implications:
- The chlamydial agent's placental predilection suggests early delivery as a potential management strategy in suspected late-pregnancy infections.
- This highlights the importance of considering zoonotic Chlamydia transmission in pregnant women with relevant exposure history.