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Necrotizing funisitis associated with Actinomyces meyeri infection: a case report
J R Wright1, D Stinson, A Wade
1Department of Pathology and Surgery, Izaak Walton Killam Children's Hospital, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Pediatric Pathology
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Necrotizing funisitis, a placental condition linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, was identified in a preterm delivery case. The study isolated Actinomyces meyeri, a novel bacterium, from the umbilical cord, suggesting a new cause for this obstetric complication.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Microbiology
- Neonatal Perinatal Medicine
Background:
- Necrotizing funisitis is a placental pathology associated with stillbirth, perinatal infection, and preterm delivery.
- The specific causative organism for necrotizing funisitis has not been definitively identified, though associations with congenital syphilis exist.
Observation:
- A case of necrotizing funisitis was observed in a 24-year-old woman presenting with preterm labor at 31 weeks gestation.
- Placental examination revealed severe chorioamnionitis and necrotizing funisitis, with numerous gram-positive filamentous branching organisms on the umbilical cord and in Wharton jelly.
Findings:
- Initial placental cultures were negative, but anaerobic culture of umbilical cord homogenate identified Actinomyces meyeri.
- Actinomyces meyeri, typically found in the periodontal sulcus, has not been previously reported in the female genital tract.
- The mother had a history of recurrent dental abscesses, with increased pain during the recent pregnancy.
Implications:
- This case suggests Actinomyces meyeri as a potential causative agent of necrotizing funisitis.
- The findings expand the understanding of microbial causes of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Early identification and appropriate treatment of maternal infections may be crucial in preventing severe perinatal complications.