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[Vertical transmission causing hepatitis C in a newborn infant]
M Grasselly1, D Gagyi, F Schneider
1Vas Megyei Markusovszky Kórház Csecsemö-és Gyermekosztálya, Fertözö Osztálya.
Insights
This case report details a newborn with Klebsiella pneumoniae sepsis who later developed hyperbilirubinemia. Analysis revealed Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection, suggesting vertical transmission from mother to infant in Hungary.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hepatology
Background:
- A newborn diagnosed with intrauterine growth retardation and Klebsiella pneumoniae sepsis presented with hyperbilirubinemia.
- The infant underwent exchange transfusion on day 5 due to elevated bilirubin levels.
Observation:
- Recurrent hyperbilirubinemia and liver enzyme abnormalities were noted 10 days post-transfusion.
- Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)-related antibodies were detected in both the infant and the mother.
Findings:
- Polymerase chain reaction analysis confirmed the presence of HCV RNA in both mother and infant.
- This strongly suggests vertical transmission of Hepatitis C Virus infection from mother to neonate.
Implications:
- This case represents the first documented instance of vertical HCV transmission to a newborn in Hungary.
- Highlights the importance of screening pregnant women for HCV and considering neonatal implications.
Abstract:
There is a case report of an intrauterine growth retarded infant who was suffering of sepsis caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae. An exchange transfusion was carried out because of hyperbilirubinaemia on the 5th day of life. 10 days later high bilirubin concentration was observed again parallel to the liver enzyme abnormalities. HCV-related antibodies were detectable in the sera of the newborn and his mother as well. The results of analysis of HCV RNA with the polymerase chain reaction in the infant and his mother suggest vertical transmission of HCV infection. This is the first case of HCV infection in the newborn caused by vertical transmission in Hungary.