Comparison of laboratory and radiological findings of pregnant and non-pregnant women with covid-19

Abstract Objective Covid-19 became a pandemic, and researchers have not been able to establish a treatment algorithm. The pregnant population is also another concern for health care professionals. There are physiological changes related to pregnancy that result in different laboratory levels, radiological findings and disease progression. The goal of the present article is to determine whether the laboratory results and radiological findings were different in non-pregnant women (NPWs) of reproductive age and pregnant women (PWs) diagnosed with the Covid-19 infection. Methods Out of 34 patients, 15 (44.11%) PWs and 19 (55.8%) NPWs were included in the study. Age, comorbidities, complaints, vitals, respiratory rates, computed tomography (CT) findings and stages, as well as laboratory parameters, were recorded from the hospital database. Results Themean age of the PWs was of 27.6 ± 0.99 years, and that of the NPWs was of 37.63 ± 2.00; when agewas compared between the groups, a statistically significant difference (p=0.001) was found. The mean systolic blood pressure of the PWs was of 116.53 ± 11.35, and that of the NPWs was of 125.53 ± 13.00, and their difference was statistically significant (p=0.05). The difference in the minimum respiratory rates of the patients was also statistically significant (p=0.05). The platelet levels observed among the PWs with Covid-19 were lower than those of the NPWs (185.40 ± 39.09 x 109/mcL and 232.00 ± 71.04 x 109/mcL respectively; p=0.05). The mean D-dimer value of the PWs was lower in comparison to that of the NPWs (p<0.05). Conclusion The laboratory findings and imaging studiesmay differ between pregnant and non-pregnant populations. It is important to properly interpret these studies. Future studies with a higher number of patients are required to confirm these preliminary data.

COVID-19 in Pregnancy: Implication on Platelets and Blood Indices / COVID-19 na gravidez: implicações nas plaquetas e índices sanguíneos

Abstract Objective To describe the hematological changes, the platelet indices in particular, in pregnant women with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) compared to healthy pregnant women. Methods A retrospective case-control study conducted at the Al Yarmouk Teaching Hospital, in Baghdad, Iraq, involving 100 pregnant women, 50 with positive viral DNA for COVID-19 (case group), and 50 with negative results (control group); both groups were subjected to a thorough hematological evaluation. Results Among the main hematological variables analyzed, the platelet indices, namely the mean platelet volume (MPV) and the platelet distribution width (PDW), showed statistically significant differences (MPV: 10.87±66.92 fL for the case group versus 9.84±1.2 fL for the control group; PDW: 14.82±3.18 fL for the case group versus 13.3±2.16 fL for the controls). The criterionvalue of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve forPDWat a cutoffpoint of>11.8 fL showed a weak diagnostic marker, while the MPV at a cutoff value of>10.17 fL showed a good diagnostic marker. Conclusion The MPV and PDW are significantly affected by the this viral infection, even in asymptomatic confirmed cases, and we recommend that both parameters be included in the diagnostic panel of this infection.

Resumo Objetivo Descrever as alterações hematológicas, em particular os índices plaquetários em gestantes com doença coronavírus 2019 (COVID-19) em comparação com gestantes saudáveis. Métodos Estudo caso-controle retrospectivo realizado no Hospital Universitário Al Yarmouk, em Bagdá, Iraque envolvendo 100 gestantes, 50 com DNA viral positivo para COVID-19 (grupo caso) e 50 com resultados negativos (grupo controle); ambos os grupos foram submetidos a uma avaliação hematológica completa. Resultados Entre as principais variáveis hematológicas analisadas, os índices plaquetários, nomeadamente o volume plaquetário médio (VPM) e a largura de distribuição plaquetária (PDW), apresentaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas (VPM: 10,87±66,92 fL para o grupo caso versus 9,84±1.2 fL para o o grupo controle; PDW: 14,82±3,18 fL para o grupo caso versus 13,3±2,16 fL para os controles). O valor de critério da curva de característica de operação do receptor (ROC) para PDW em um ponto de corte de> 11,8 fL mostrou um marcador diagnóstico fraco, enquanto o do VPM emumvalor de corte de> 10,17 fL mostrou um bom marcador de diagnóstico. Conclusão OMPVe PDWsão significativamente afetados por esta infecção viral, mesmo em casos confirmados assintomáticos, e recomendamos que ambos os parâmetros sejam incluídos no painel de diagnóstico desta infecção.

High incidence of herpes simplex virus-1 in cord blood and placenta infection of women in southern Brazil / Alta incidência do vírus herpes simplex 1 em sangue de cordão e infecção na placenta de mulheres no sul do Brasil

Abstract Objective Estimate the prevalence of human herpesvirus type 1 HSV-1 DNA in placental samples, its incidence in umbilical cord blood of newborns and the associated risk factors. Methods Placental biopsies and umbilical cord blood were analyzed, totaling 480 samples, from asymptomatic parturients and their newborns at a University Hospital. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gene sequencingwere used to identify the virus; odds ratio (OR) and relative risk (RR) were performed to compare risk factors associated with this condition. Results The prevalence of HSV-1 DNA in placental samples was 37.5%, and the incidence in cord blood was 27.5%. Hematogenous transplacental route was identified in 61.4% from HSV-1+ samples of umbilical cord blood paired with the placental tissue. No evidence of the virus was observed in the remaining 38.6% of placental tissues, suggesting an ascendant infection from the genital tract, without replication in the placental tissue, resulting in intra-amniotic infection and vertical transmission, seen by the virus in the cord blood. The lack of condom use increased the risk of finding HSV-1 in the placenta and umbilical cord blood. Conclusion The occurrence of HSV-1 DNA in the placenta and in cord blood found suggests vertical transmission from asymptomatic pregnant women to the fetus.

Resumo Objetivo Estimar a prevalência do DNA do vírus herpes humano 1 (HSV-1) em amostras de placenta, sua incidência no sangue do cordão umbilical de recém-nascidos e fatores de risco associados. Métodos Biópsias de placenta e de sangue de cordão umbilical foram analisadas, totalizando 480 amostras de parturientes assintomáticas e seus recém-nascidos emum hospital universitário. Reação de cadeia de polimerase (RCP) nested e sequenciamento gênico foram usados para identificar o vírus; odds ratio (OR) e risco relativo (RR) foram realizados para comparar os fatores de risco associados à essa condição. Resultados A prevalência do DNA do HSV-1 em amostras de placenta foi de 37,5%, e a incidência no sangue do cordão foi de 27,5%. A via transplacentária hematogênica foi identificada em 61,4% das amostras de HSV-1+do sangue do cordão umbilical, pareadas com o tecido placentário. Nenhuma evidência do vírus foi observada nos restantes 38,6% dos tecidos placentários, sugerindo uma infecção ascendente do trato genital. A falta de uso do preservativo aumentou o risco de encontrar o HSV-1 na placenta e no sangue do cordão umbilical. Conclusão A ocorrência de DNA do HSV-1 na placenta e no sangue do cordão umbilical sugere uma transmissão vertical de gestantes assintomáticas para o feto.

Hepatite B e C em gestantes atendidas em um programa de pré-natal em um hospital universitário no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil: estudo retrospectivo de rastreamento da soroprevalência / Hepatitis b and c in pregnant women attended by a prenatal program in an universitary hospital in rio de janeiro, brazil: retrospective study of seroprevalence screening

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Hepatitis B and C are diseases with high morbimortality and constitute a global public health problem. In Brazil, the prevalence is not homogeneous, oscillating among different regions, but it is estimated that currently about 1% of the population present chronic disease related to the B virus and that there are 1.5 million infected with the C virus. Despite the development of hepatitis B vaccine, improvement in diagnostic methods and therapeutic advances in the field of viral hepatitis, there is still a large number of people who continues to be infected by these viruses, especially in populations at risk and also due to several factors, including vaccination and migration policies. Vertical and perinatal transmissions are of great importance in the epidemiology of viral hepatitis and the blood tests performed during prenatal care constitute a great opportunity for screening and identifying these viruses. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the seroprevalence of markers for B and C viruses in women who underwent prenatal care at the Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro (Antonio Pedro University Hospital) from 2006 to 2013 and to compare the results found with regional data and those described in the specific literature. METHODS: A descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study with retrospective data collected from 635 records of pregnant women attended at the Prenatal Service of the Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro, Niterói, state of Rio de Janeiro, from March 2006 until December 2013. The database was built in the Microsoft Office Access program and was later exported to Microsoft Office Excel. For the processing and analysis of the data, it was used the SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science, IBM) version 22.0, for Windows. RESULTS: Twelve cases with positive HBsAg (1.9%), 189 cases with positive anti-HBs (35.9%) and seven positive anti-HCV patients (1.3%) were observed. There was no significant association between age and positivity for HBsAg, anti-HBs and anti-HCV (P =0.205, 0.872 and 0.676, respectively). There was a direct relationship between the anti-HBs positivity and the last four years of the study (P<0.0001). CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of HBsAg was observed, higher than the expected for the evaluated region; there was a prevalence of anti-HCV, consistent with the current Brazilian reality; and a likely low rate of hepatitis B immunization, with a relatively high rate of susceptibility to this infection and no case of co-infection between B and C viruses and HIV. It is emphasized not only the need to trace hepatitis B and C, without exceptions, during prenatal care, since even though the current advances in therapy may not cure, at least they may allow a better quality of life for patients with chronic disease and the mandatory completion of immunoprophylaxis in all newborns. Special attention should be given to those patients susceptible to HBV, with prompt diagnosis and referral for specific vaccination.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: As hepatites pelo vírus B e C são doenças com elevada morbimortalidade e um problema de saúde pública global. No Brasil a prevalência não é homogênea, variando entre as diferentes regiões, mas estima-se que atualmente cerca de 1% da população apresente doença crônica relacionada ao vírus B e que haja 1,5 milhões de infectados pelo vírus C. Apesar do desenvolvimento da vacina contra a hepatite B, da melhoria nos métodos diagnósticos e dos avanços terapêuticos no campo das hepatites virais, ainda é grande o número de pessoas que continuam sendo infectadas por esses vírus, principalmente nas populações sob algum tipo de risco e devido a vários fatores incluindo políticas de vacinação e migração. A transmissão vertical e também a perinatal têm grande importância na epidemiologia das hepatites virais e os exames realizados durante o pré-natal constituem uma oportunidade única de rastreio e identificação destes vírus. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a soroprevalência de marcadores para os vírus B e C em mulheres que realizaram a assistência pré-natal no Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro no período de 2006 a 2013 e comparar os resultados encontrados com os dados regionais e os descritos na literatura específica. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, descritivo, do tipo quantitativo, com coleta retrospectiva de dados em 635 prontuários de gestantes atendidas no Serviço de pré-natal do Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro, Niterói, estado do Rio de Janeiro no período de março de 2006 a dezembro de 2013. O banco de dados foi construído no programa Microsoft Office Access, sendo posteriormente exportado para Microsoft Office Excel. Para o processamento e análise dos dados, foi utilizado o pacote estatístico SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science, IBM) versão 22.0, para Windows. RESULTADOS: Foram observados 12 casos com HBsAg positivo (1,9%), 189 casos com anti-HBs positivo (35,9%) e sete pacientes positivas para o anti-HCV (1,3%). Não foi observada associação significativa entre a faixa etária e a positividade do HBsAg, anti-HBs e anti-HCV (P=0, 205, 0,872 e 0,676 respectivamente). Houve relação direta entre a positividade do anti-HBs e os últimos quatro anos da pesquisa (P<0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: Foi observada uma prevalência alta do HBsAg, acima daquela esperada para a região avaliada; uma prevalência para o anti-HCV concordante com a realidade brasileira atual; um índice provavelmente baixo de imunização contra a hepatite B, com índice relativamente alto de susceptibilidade para esta infecção e nenhum caso de coinfecção entre o vírus B, C e o HIV. Enfatiza-se não só a necessidade da triagem das hepatites B e C, sem exceções, durante o pré-natal, já que os avanços atuais na terapêutica poderão se não curar, pelo menos possibilitar uma melhor qualidade de vida para as pacientes com doença crônica e da realização mandatória da imunoprofilaxia em todos os recém-natos. Atenção especial deverá ser dada àquelas pacientes susceptíveis ao HBV, com pronto diagnóstico e encaminhamento para a realização da vacinação específica.

Social conditions and immune response in human immunodeficiency virus-seropositive pregnant women: a cross-sectional study in Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION The functioning of the immune system during pregnancy is altered in both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected and uninfected women. Unfavorable socioeconomic conditions have been indicative of higher morbidity and mortality and worsening of the immune system. The aim of this study was to correlate social status with levels of interleukin (IL)-10 (non-inflammatory) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ; inflammatory) cytokines. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted with three groups of women: 33 pregnant HIV-infected (G1); 40 non-pregnant, HIV-infected (G2); and 35 pregnant, HIV-uninfected. To measure the social status, a compound indicator called the social status index (SSI), was established using sociodemographic variables (i.e., education level, housing conditions, per capita income, and habitation and sanitary conditions). RESULTS The HIV-infected women had a higher proportion of unfavorable SSI (73% and 75% of G1 and G2, respectively). There were significantly lower IL-10 levels in the G1 group with both unfavorable and favorable SSI than in the other groups. No significant difference in IFN-γ levels was observed among groups. However, the G1 group had higher IFN-γ values among both favorable and unfavorable SSI groups. CONCLUSIONS Higher rates of unfavorable conditions, including lower education levels, IL-10 levels, and a trend for higher IFN-γ levels, were identified among HIV-infected women, pregnant and non-pregnant. These factors may interfere in health care and lead to poor outcomes during pregnancy. Therefore, we suggest that health policies could be created to specifically address these factors in this population.

Seroprevalencia contra Bordetella pertussis en embarazadas vacunadas y no vacunadas y neonatos en un hospital universitario de la provincia de Buenos Aires / Seroprevalence of Bordetella pertussis among vaccinated and unvaccinated pregnant women and newborn infants in a university hospital of Buenos Aires

Introducción. La tos convulsa es una enfermedad altamente contagiosa causada por Bordetella pertussis. Tiene una alta tasa de morbilidad y mortalidad, especialmente, en los lactantes menores de seis meses de edad. En la Argentina, la incidencia y la mortalidad se han encontrado en aumento en las últimas 3 décadas. Objetivo. Determinar anticuerpos contra Bordetella pertussis en las mujeres embarazadas en el tercer trimestre de la gestación y en el recién nacido, medidos en la sangre del cordón. Métodos. Se disenó un estudio observacional, transversal. El estudio se inició en 2011 cuando la vacunación contra pertussis en la embarazada no estaba incluida en el Calendario Nacional de Vacunación y era opcional. Los anticuerpos se midieron en las madres en el tercer trimestre del embarazo y en la sangre del cordón umbilical al nacer. Las determinaciones de anticuerpos se realizaron con el kit de ELISA humano para IgG toxina pertussis ABCAMR. Se utilizó la prueba de chi² para comparar la prevalencia. Resultados. Se incluyó a 111 madres y a sus bebés, 35 hijos de madres no vacunadas (antes de la implementación de la vacuna en embarazadas) y 76 hijos de madres vacunadas. Los bebés de madres vacunadas presentaron anticuerpos IgG positivos en el 92% (70/76), mientras que los bebés de madres no vacunadas fueron negativos para anticuerpos IgG en el 100% (35/35) con una p < 0,001. Conclusión. En la población de vacunadas del estudio, se observó que sus hijos presentaron anticuerpos IgG positivos en el 92%. Este estudio apoya la necesidad de la inmunización materna contra Bordetella pertussis para proteger al recién nacido.

Introduction. Pertussis is a highly contagious disease caused by Bordetella pertussis. It poses a high morbidity and mortality rate, especially among infants younger than 6 months old. In Argentina, pertussis incidence and mortality have increased over the past three decades. Objective. To establish Bordetella pertussis antibody titers among pregnant women in their third trimester and among newborn infants, as measured in cord blood. Methods. This was an observational, crosssectional study. The study started in 2011; at that time, pertussis vaccination was not mandatory for pregnant women as per the national immunization schedule, only optional. Maternal antibodies were measured in the last trimester of pregnancy for women and in cord blood for newborn infants. Antibody titers were determined using Abcam's anti-Bordetella pertussis toxin (PT) IgG in vitro ELISA kit. The X2 test was used to compare prevalence rates. Results. The study included 111 mother-newborn infant dyads; 35 infants from unvaccinated mothers (before the introduction of the vaccine) and 76 from vaccinated mothers. Positive IgG antibodies were found in 92% (70/76) of infants born from vaccinated mothers whereas 100% (35/35) of infants born from unvaccinated mothers had negative results for antibodies; p < 0.001. Conclusion. In the vaccinated population of this study, 92% of infants had positive IgG antibodies. This study supports the need for maternal immunization against Bordetella pertussis to provide protection to newborn infants.

Análise espacial da prevalência de toxoplasmose em gestantes de Aracaju, Sergipe, Brasil / Spatial distribution of anti-toxoplasma antibodies in pregnant women from Aracaju, Sergipe, Brazil

OBJETIVO: Analisar a distribuição espacial da prevalência de anticorpos antitoxoplasma em gestantes residentes em uma cidade do Nordeste do Brasil, e correlacionar a prevalência de anticorpos antitoxoplasma com a faixa etária materna e o local de residência. MÉTODOS: Estudo ecológico, descritivo e analítico, desenvolvido no período de 01 janeiro a 31 de dezembro de 2012. As informações foram obtidas retrospectivamente de um banco de dados, e processadas com o pacote estatístico Epi info (Epi 7, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, EUA) e também em planilha do pacote Microsoft Office Excel, versão 2010. Para avaliar a associação entre a prevalência de anticorpos para a toxoplasmose e a faixa etária, foi aplicado o teste do X2. A análise espacial da prevalência dessa infecção foi realizada com o programa TerraView, versão 4.2.2, utilizando o estimador de intensidade Kernel, que permite estimar a quantidade de eventos em mapa para identificar áreas de maior concentração de casos no município. RESULTADOS: A soroprevalência encontrada para IgG foi de 68,5% (IC95% 67,2-69,8) e IgM de 0,36% (IC95% 0,23-0,6). Foi encontrado incremento da prevalência de IgG associado ao aumento da idade nos bairros mais antigos da capital. Entre as mulheres mais jovens, a maior prevalência foi nos bairros de periferia. Quanto ao anticorpo IgM, a concentração espacial foi mais elevada em bairros da periferia e não ocorreu associação significativa entre a soroprevalência e a idade. CONCLUSÃO: O geoprocessamento permitiu identificar as áreas de maior prevalência, assim como a faixa etária com maior suscetibilidade, servindo como instrumento de avaliação e implementação de medidas preventivas apropriadas para esse município ...

PURPOSE: To analyze the spatial distribution of the prevalence of anti-toxoplasma gondii antibodies in pregnant women from a Brazilian Northeast city, and to correlate such prevalence with average maternal age and place of residence. METHODS: A descriptive, analytical and ecological study was conducted from January 1st to December 31st 2012. Data were obtained retrospectively from the Medical Specialties Center database and processed with the Epi info statistical package (Epi 7, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA) and with Microsoft Excel 2010. The X2 test was applied to assess the association between the prevalence of antibodies to toxoplasma gondii and the average age. Spatial analysis of infection prevalence was performed using the TerraView software, version 4.2.2, with Kernel density estimation, which estimates the quantity of events through maps in order to identify areas with the highest concentration of cases in the city. RESULTS: The seroprevalence of IgG was 68.5% (95%CI 67.2-69.8) and the prevalence of IgM was 0.36% (95%CI 0.23-0.6). A higher IgG prevalence was associated with increased age in the oldest neighborhoods of the state capital, whereas a higher IgG prevalence among younger women was detected in suburban neighborhoods. The spatial concentration of IgM antibodies was higher in suburban neighborhoods, with no significant correlation between seroprevalence and age. CONCLUSION: Geoprocessing allowed the identification of areas with the highest prevalence, as well as the most susceptible average age and it was also useful as an instrument for the evaluation and implementation of appropriate preventive measures for this municipality and for other regions of Brazil. .

Prevalence of hepatitis B and C seropositivity in pregnant women / Prevalencia de soropositividade para hepatite B e C em gestantes / Prevalencia de seropositividad para hepatitis B y C en mujeres embarazadas

The aim of the study was to identify the prevalence of hepatitis B and C seropositivity in pregnant women attended in a public maternity hospital located in Catalao-GO from 2005 to 2009. Descriptive, exploratory study conducted through patients` hospital records. For data analysis, we used SPSS version 18.0. The confidence interval (CI) was calculated using the Person χ² test, considering a significance level of 5% (p <0.05). The prevalence of HBV was 5.64% and HCV 0.098%, predominantly in young pregnant women aged between 20 and 30 years old, single and in their first pregnancy.

El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar la prevalencia de seropositividad para los virus de la hepatitis B y C en mujeres embarazadas atendidas en una maternidad pública de Catalão-GO entre los años 2005 y 2009. Se trata de un estudio descriptivo-exploratorio realizado a partir de la revisión de las fichas clínicas de las pacientes. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó el programa SPSS versión 18.0. El intervalo de confianza (IC) fue calculado por medio del test de Person χ², considerando un nivel de significancia de 5% (p <0,05). Las tasas de prevalencia de los virus de la hepatitis B y C fueron de 5,64% y 0,098% respectivamente. La mayor frecuencia de seropositividad de estos virus se observó en embarazadas entre 20 y 30 años, solteras y primigestas.

O objetivo do estudo foi identificar a prevalência de soropositividade para as hepatite B e C em gestantes atendidas em uma maternidade pública do município de Catalão-GO no período de 2005 a 2009. Estudo descritivo, exploratório, realizado por meio de consulta aos prontuários. Para a análise dos dados utilizou-se SPSS versão 18.0. O intervalo de confiança (IC) foi calculado por meio do teste de Person χ², considerando um nível de significância de 5% (p< 0,05). A taxa de prevalência de VHB foi de 5,64% e a de VHC, de 0,098%, predominantemente em gestantes jovens, com idade entre 20 e 30 anos, solteiras e primigestas.

Prevalência de sorologia positiva para HIV, hepatite B, toxoplasmose e rubéola em gestantes do noroeste paranaense / Prevalence of positive sorology for HIV, hepatitis B, toxoplasmosis and rubella in pregnant women from the northwestern region of the state of Paraná

OBJETIVO: Verificar a soroprevalência do vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV), hepatite B (VHB), toxoplasmose e rubéola em gestantes do noroeste paranaense. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo a partir dos resultados de exames sorológicos de triagem no pré-natal de 1.534 pacientes atendidas durante o primeiro semestre de 2010. Foram incluídos somente resultados do primeiro exame de pré-natal e aqueles com pesquisa simultânea de IgG e IgM para toxoplasmose e rubéola. A sorologia foi realizada por enzimaimunoensaio em micropartículas (MEIA). Para análise estatística foi empregado o teste do χ², com nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: A positividade para o HIV foi de 0,3%, a sorologia para VHB pelo marcador HBsAg foi positiva em 0,5% das gestantes, enquanto a reatividade para anticorpos IgM anti-Toxoplasma gondii foi de 1,1% e para IgG de 59%. Em relação à rubéola nenhuma sorologia mostrou positividade para IgM, e para IgG a reatividade foi de 99,6%. A análise dos resultados mostrou que não há associação entre as soroprevalências estudadas e a idade das pacientes, exceto quanto à frequência de IgG anti-T. gondii, que foi mais elevada na faixa etária entre 30 e 44 anos. CONCLUSÃO: A soroprevalência dessas doenças infecciosas em gestantes do noroeste do Paraná é compatível com outras regiões do Brasil.

PURPOSE: To ascertain the seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV), toxoplasmosis and rubella infections in pregnant women in northwestern Paraná. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study based on the results of serological screening during prenatal care of 1,534 patients during the first half of 2010. We included only results from the first prenatal exam and with a simultaneous search for IgG and IgM antibodies to rubella and toxoplasmosis. Serology was performed by microparticle enzyme immunoassay (MEIA). Data were analyzed statistically by the χ² test, with the level of significance set at 5%. RESULTS: HIV positivity was 0.3%, positivity of HBV serology (HbsAg) was 0.5%, reactivity to IgM antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii was 1.1%, and reactivity to IgG antibodies was 59.0%. For rubella, no patient was positive for IgM, and IgG reactivity was 99.6%. Data analysis showed no statistical association between seroprevalence and patient age, except for the frequency of anti-T. gondii IgG, which was higher in the 30 to 44 year age group. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of these infectious diseases in pregnant women from northwestern Paraná is comparable to that observed in other regions of Brazil.

Lopinavir/ritonavir dosing during pregnancy in Brazil and maternal/infant laboratory abnormalities

OBJECTIVES: To describe laboratory abnormalities among HIV-infected women and their infants with standard and increased lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) dosing during the third trimester of pregnancy. METHODS: We evaluated data on pregnant women from NISDI cohorts (2002-2009) enrolled in Brazil, who received at least 28 days of LPV/r during the third pregnancy trimester and gave birth to singleton infants. RESULTS: 164 women received LPV/r standard dosing [(798/198 or 800/200 mg/day) (Group 1)] and 70 increased dosing [(> 800/200 mg/day) (Group 2)]. Group 1 was more likely to have advanced clinical disease and to use ARVs for treatment, and less likely to have CD4 counts > 500 cells/mm³. Mean plasma viral load was higher in Group 2. There were statistically significant, but not clinically meaningful, differences between groups in mean AST, ALT, cholesterol, and triglycerides. The proportion of women with Grade 3 or 4 adverse events was very low, with no statistically significant differences between groups in severe adverse events related to ALT, AST, total bilirubin, cholesterol, or triglycerides. There were statistically significant, but not clinically meaningful, differences between infant groups in ALT and creatinine. The proportion of infants with Grade 3 or 4 adverse events was very low, and there were no statistically significant differences in severe adverse events related to ALT, AST, BUN, or creatinine. CONCLUSION: The proportions of women and infants with severe laboratory adverse events were very low. Increased LPV/r dosing during the third trimester of pregnancy appears to be safe for HIV-infected women and their infants.

Seroprevalencia de IgG contra Rubeola en mujeres entre 10-49 años, en Cartagena, Colombia / The seroprevalence IgG antibodies against rubella (German measles) in 10-49 year-old women from Cartagena, Colombia

Objetivo Determinar la seroprevalencia de Inmunoglobulina G (IgG) contra Virus de la Rubéola (VR) en Cartagena y si las metas de cobertura en inmunización contra VR han sido alcanzadas. Métodos Se desarrolló un estudio transversal, durante 2009. Se incluyeron mujeres entre 10-49 años de edad. Los individuos fueron seleccionados aleatoriamente. Las variables socio-demográficas fueron registradas por entrevista directa. La IgG contra VR fue detectada mediante ELISA. Para analizar diferencias entre grupos se emplearon la prueba exacta de Fisher y X2. Se aplicó un modelo de regresión logística para correlacionar variables. Resultados Se analizaron 1 528 muestras. El 93 por ciento (n=1 422) de la población fue seropositiva. Las mujeres entre 10-14 años reportaron un menor nivel de seropositividad en relación con el resto de la población. Las diferencias entre proporciones de seroprevalencia fueron estadísticamente significativas en los rangos de edad (p<0,001) y la ocupación (p=0,042). Las mujeres entre 10-14 años reportaron riesgo elevado para seronegatividad (OR=0,27, p<0,001). Conclusiones Las metas de seroprevalencia contra VR no han sido alcanzadas en Cartagena y nuevos casos de Rubéola o Síndrome de Rubéola Congénita podrían presentarse en el Distrito. Estos hallazgos revelan que no hubo progreso significativo desde 2006, cuando el porcentaje de cobertura en vacunación contra VR oscilaba entre 90-95 por ciento. El alto riesgo en el grupo de 10-14 años sugiere falencias en la administración de las dosis iniciales en el esquema de vacunación.

Objective Determining immunoglobulin G (IgG) against the rubella virus (RV) causing German measles in Cartagena and whether vaccination goals against German measles have been achieved. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out during 2009; females aged 10-49 years were included. Selection was randomised. Socio-demographic variables were recorded in face-to-face interviews. IgG against RV was detected by ELISA. X2 and Fisher's exact tests were used for comparing variables. A logistic regression model was used for correlating data. Results A total of 1,528 serum samples were analysed; 93 percent (n=1,422) were seropositive. The lowest seropositivity was reported in girls aged 10-14. Differences regarding seroprevalence percentages were statistically significant between age ranges (p<0.001) and employment (p=0.042). A high risk of seronegativity was reported for girls aged 10-14 (OR=0.27; p<0.001). Conclusions Seroprevalence goals against RV had not been reached in Cartagena and new cases of rubella (German measles) or congenital rubella (German measles)syndrome are still possible in the area. These findings revealed that no significant progress had been made since 2006 when German measles vaccine coverage was 90 percent-95 percent. High risk in girls aged 10-14 suggests that the local immunisation programme fails in MMR vaccine administration.

Postpartum changes in plasma viral load and CD4 percentage among HIV-infected women from Latin American and Caribbean countries: the NISDI Perinatal Study

The goal of this study was to evaluate changes in plasma human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) RNA concentration [viral load (VL)] and CD4+ percentage (CD4 percent) during 6-12 weeks postpartum (PP) among HIV-infected women and to assess differences according to the reason for receipt of antiretrovirals (ARVs) during pregnancy [prophylaxis (PR) vs. treatment (TR)]. Data from a prospective cohort of HIV-infected pregnant women (National Institute of Child Health and Human Development International Site Development Initiative Perinatal Study) were analyzed. Women experiencing their first pregnancy who received ARVs for PR (started during pregnancy, stopped PP) or for TR (initiated prior to pregnancy and/or continued PP) were included and were followed PP. Increases in plasma VL (> 0.5 log10) and decreases in CD4 percent (> 20 percent relative decrease in CD4 percent) between hospital discharge (HD) and PP were assessed. Of the 1,229 women enrolled, 1,119 met the inclusion criteria (PR: 601; TR: 518). At enrollment, 87 percent were asymptomatic. The median CD4 percent values were: HD [34 percent (PR); 25 percent (TR)] and PP [29 percent (PR); 24 percent (TR)]. The VL increases were 60 percent (PR) and 19 percent (TR) (p < 0.0001). The CD4 percent decreases were 36 percent (PR) and 18 percent (TR) (p < 0.0001). Women receiving PR were more likely to exhibit an increase in VL [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 7.7 (95 percent CI: 5.5-10.9) and a CD4 percent decrease (AOR 2.3; 95 percent CI: 1.6-3.2). Women receiving PR are more likely to have VL increases and CD4 percent decreases compared to those receiving TR. The clinical implications of these VL and CD4 percent changes remain to be explored.

Hepatitis B prevalence during pregnancy.

In order to determine the efficacy of a new hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG), a phase 3, vertical transmission (mother to child) clinical interventional trial of hepatitis B virus (HBV) post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) was conducted at selected sites (n=15) throughout India. This required a large screening program for HBsAg positivity at prenatal clinics located in tertiary care hospitals. 36,379 pregnant women consented to be tested for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) by Rapid Test and if positive-confirmed by ELISA. The weighted mean prevalence was 0.82% (95% CI, 0.72, 0.91). In conclusion, the prevalence of HBV carrier state during pregnancy in India in this study was low compared to previous reports.

Resposta humoral ao vírus dengue em mães/filhos: relação com a sequência de Mõbius / Humoral immune response to dengue virus in mothers/children: relation with Mõbius sequence

OBJETIVO: Investigar a resposta humoral para o vírus dengue em pacientes com sequência de Mõbius e suas mães, analisando a relação entre a infecção na gestação e o nascimento de portadores da sequência de Mõbius. MÉTODOS: Foram revisados os prontuários dos pacientes atendidos em centro de referência. Aplicou-se um questionário estruturado a cada genitora. Sorologia por Elisa para IgG de dengue foi efetuada em 35 pacientes e suas mães. O teste de neutralização por redução em placas foi feito nas que referiram infecção viral na gestação e em seus filhos, para determinar o sorotipo viral causador da infecção. RESULTADOS: Febre, cefaléia e/ou dor retro-orbitária foi referida por 18 (51,4 por cento) mães. Três (8,6 por cento) referiram dengue no primeiro ou início do segundo trimestre de gestação. Cruzando-se as informações das sorologias das mães e crianças observou-se que em 57,1 por cento dos casos há positividade sorológica para o vírus do dengue na mãe e no filho. Das três mães com infecção na gestação, uma e seu filho, apresentou teste de neutralização por redução em placa positivo para o vírus dengue tipo três (DENV-3), entretanto o sorotipo apenas foi introduzido em Pernambuco em 2002, o que exclui a possibilidade de ter ocorrido transmissão vertical da doença. CONCLUSÃO: As sorologias dos casos que tiveram diagnóstico clínico de dengue na gravidez revelaram-se incompatíveis com a hipótese de ter ocorrido transmissão vertical da doença. Portanto, na amostra estudada, a infecção pelo vírus do dengue não pode ser considerada como fator implicado na gênese da sequência de Mõbius.

PURPOSE: To investigate the humoral immune response to dengue virus in patients with Mõbius sequence and their mothers, assessing the relation between this infection during pregnancy and Mõbius sequence. METHODS: The medical records were reviewed, and a questionnaire was answered by each mother. IgG ELISA was performed in 35 patients and their mothers. A plaque reduction neutralization test was further done in the mothers who reported a viral infection during pregnancy and in their children for determining which dengue serotype virus had caused the infection. RESULTS: Fever, headache and/or retrobulbar pain during pregnancy was referred by eighteen (51.4 percent) mothers. Three (8.6 percent) reported dengue during the first or second quarteers of pregnancy. When cross analyzing the mothers and their respective children serological results, 57.1 percent of them matched. Of the three mothers with clinical diagnosis of viral infection during pregnancy, one and its respective children had a positive plaque reduction neutralization test for dengue serotype three (DENV-3), this serotype reached Pernambuco in 2002, which excludes the possibility of a vertical transmission to the children. CONCLUSION: The serology of the cases that had clinical diagnosis of dengue during pregnancy proved to be incompatible with the hypothesis of the disease vertical transmission. Therefore, in the present serie, the dengue virus infection can not be considered as a factor involved in the genesis of Mõbius sequence.

Prognostic markers of symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus infection

The objective of this research was to identify maternal and fetal characteristics as prognostic markers of congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. This is a descriptive study of 13 cases of congenital CMV infection referred to Institute de Puericulture et Perinatologie de Paris (IPP) from January 2005 to October 2006. Amniotic fluid puncture was performed to research CMV polimerase chain reaction (PCR). Cordocentesis and cord blood samples at delivery were also analyzed to determinate fetal platelets count, GGT, ASAT, ALAT, CMV-DNA and IgM antibody. Variables of symptomatic and asymptomatic infants were then compared. Data were analyzed by SPSS - 15.0. Mean gestational age of amniocentesis was 24.6 weeks and there was no difference of mean viral load in amniotic fluid considering infant features. Mean gestational age of cordocentesis was 26.1 weeks. There were no statistical differences of fetal viral load, IgM, platelets, GGT, ASAT and ALAT analyzed at cordocentesis samples, but at delivery, mean values of IgM and ASAT of fetal blood were increased in symptomatic ones (p= 0.03 for both parameters). When considering groups with normal and abnormal parameters, ASAT of cordon samples was also increased in symptomatic infants (p= 0.02). Sensibility, specificity, positive and negative predictive value of fetal ultrasound anomalies to detect symptomatic infants were, respectively, 80 percent, 62.5 percent, 57.1 percent and 83.3 percent. Thus, identification of markers of CMV symptomatic infants should be aimed. Prenatal diagnosis, identification and follow up of congenital CMV infected infants are important to consider treatment for symptomatic infants, trying to avoid or reducing some possible sequels.

Cervical Length and the Risk of Microbial Invasion of the Amniotic Cavity in Women with Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes

The aims of this study were to determine whether sonographically measured cervical length is of value in the identification of microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity in women with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and to compare its performance with maternal blood C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell count (WBC), and amniotic fluid (AF) WBC. This prospective observational study enrolled 50 singleton pregnancies with PPROM. Transvaginal ultrasound for measurement of cervical length was performed and maternal blood was collected for the determination of CRP and WBC at the time of amniocentesis. AF obtained by amniocentesis was cultured and WBC determined. The prevalence of a positive amniotic fluid culture was 26% (13/50). Patients with positive amniotic fluid cultures had a significantly shorter median cervical length and higher median CRP, WBC, and AF WBC than did those with negative cultures. Multiple logistic regression indicated that only cervical length had a significant relationship with the log odds of a positive AF culture. Transvaginal sonographic measurement of cervical length is valuable in the identification of microbial invasion of amniotic cavity in women with PPROM. Cervical length performs better than AF WBC, maternal blood CRP, and WBC in the identification of a positive amniotic fluid culture.

Infecção pelo helicobacter pylori e sua correlação com os sintomas dispépticos e evolução da gravidez / Helicobacter pylori infection and its correlation with gastrointestinal symptoms and outcome of pregnancy

OBJETIVO: Investigar em gestantes possível correlação da infecção pelo Helicobacter pylori com sintomas dispépticos e características maternas da gravidez. MÉTODOS: A soropositividade ao H. pylori foi obtida em 146 mulheres com 10 a 23 semanas de gestação. A média de idade foi de 29,6 anos, variando de 17 a 45 anos. A determinação semiquantitativa de anticorpos da classe IgG contra o H. pylori foi realizada com "kit" Elisa de procedência comercial (Varelisa H.pylori IgG Antibodies, Pharmacia & Upjohn Diagnostics GmbH & Co., Germany). Grávidas com sintomas dispépticos que necessitaram de tratamento constituíram o grupo investigado. Outras características maternas também foram correlacionadas à infecção pelo H. pylori: obesidade - IMC >30; paridade - primípara e multípara; evolução da gestação - a termo e aborto ou prematuridade. Os valores obtidos foram submetidos a análise estatística - t de Student e Qui-quadrado. RESULTADOS: A prevalência da infecção pelo H. pylori na população estudada foi de 65,7 por cento. Constatou-se ausência de correlação entre a infecção bacteriana e os fenômenos dispépticos da gravidez. Correlação negativa também foi constatada para obesidade, paridade e o evoluir da gestação. Gestantes com sorologia positiva apresentaram media de idade significantemente maior que as de sorologia negativa: 30,45 ± 6,87 versus 27,96 ± 7,44, p= 0,045565. CONCLUSÃO: O presente estudo não associou a infecção pelo H. pylori com os sintomas dispépticos da gravidez, nem com as características maternas estudadas: obesidade, paridade e evolução da gravidez.

OBJECTIVE: The present study intended to investigate whether there was a relationship between pregnant women with dyspeptic complaints and with and without Helycobacter pylori infection in the first and second trimester of pregnancy. METHODS: H.pylori seropositivity was determined in 146 (aged 20 to 40 years) antenatal patients at 10 to 23 weeks gestation. H.Pylori ser um Immunoglobulin IgG antibody concentrations were determined by enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay (ELISA). Age, obesity, parity, outcome of pregnancy and dyspeptic symptoms were registered in the patients' medical records. Chi-square and Student's t-test were used for statistical analysis of the data. RESULTS: Prevalence of H.pylori infection in the population studied was 65.7 percent (96 of 146). H pylori infection was not associated with parity, preterm delivery, obesity or with dyspeptic symptoms. Women positive for H.pylori IgG were older (30, 45 ± 6.87 vs 27, 96 ± 7.44, p= 0,045565*) than H. pylori negative patients. CONCLUSION: In this study there was no association of H pylori infection with dyspeptic symptoms in pregnancy .nor was its presence associated with obesity, parity and outcome of pregnancy.

Seroprevalencia de sífilis en mujeres embarazadas en San Luis Potosí / Seroprevalence of syphilis in pregnant women in San Luis Potosí

OBJETIVO: Determinar la seroprevalencia de sífilis en mujeres embarazadas. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Encuesta seroepidemiológica en 1 857 mujeres que acudieron para la atención del parto a un hospital general de la ciudad de San Luis Potosí. RESULTADOS: Se diagnosticó sífilis en cinco (0.27 por ciento) mujeres al momento del parto. Los factores maternos asociados con una probabilidad superior de presentar sífilis incluyeron mayor edad materna, mayor número de embarazos previos y vivir en unión libre con su pareja. CONCLUSIONES: El número de recién nacidos expuestos a sífilis durante el embarazo, en la ciudad de San Luis Potosí, está subestimado. Los resultados de este estudio sustentan la necesidad de identificar, al momento del parto, a madres infectadas con sífilis.

Sífilis materna y congénita en dos hospitales mexicanos: evaluación de una prueba diagnóstica rápida / Maternal and congenital syphilis in two Mexican hospitals: Evaluation of a rapid diagnostic test

Objective. To estimate the prevalence of maternal and neonatal syphilis, to assess the usefulness of a rapid treponemic diagnostic test, and to evaluate the frequency of screening for syphilis during prenatal care in Mexican women. Material and methods. This was a cross-sectional study that included 1,322 women interviewed in two hospitals (Hospital General in Cuernavaca, Morelos, and Hospital de la Mujer in Mexico City). Women answered a questionnaire on reproductive background, exposure to sexually transmitted infections and prenatal care. In order to diagnose syphilis, a rapid Determine TP test and a latex-VDRL test were used among all participating women. Positive cases were confirmed using FTA-ABS test. Results. Prevalence of serologically active syphilis was 0.3% (4/1322). Using as comparison standard a combination of VDRL and FTA-ABS tests, the Determine TP test had a sensitivity and specificity of 100%. Two newborns with positive FTA-ABS IgM, one negative with FTA-ABS IgM and one first-trimester abortion were found from seropositive women. Prenatal serum screening for syphilis was conducted in only 6.9% of women included in the study. Conclusions. Although the prevalence of maternal syphilis is relatively low, results show that if the situation found in the hospitals studied is shared by other hospitals in Mexico, a systematic screening for maternal syphilis would help to diagnose more cases of this infection than the number reported in official figures. Screening of syphilis in pregnant women using rapid tests may help in the prevention of congenital syphilis.

Objetivos. Estimar la seroprevalencia de sífilis materna y neonatal, analizar la utilidad de una prueba diagnóstica treponémica rápida y estudiar la frecuencia de escrutinio serológico de sífilis durante el embarazo. Material y métodos. Se realizó un estudio transversal que incluyó a 1,322 mujeres entrevistadas en dos hospitales (Hospital General de Cuernavaca y Hospital de la Mujer de la ciudad de México). Las mujeres contestaron un cuestionario sobre antecedentes ginecoobstétricos, de exposición a infecciones de transmisión sexual y de atención prenatal. Para el diagnóstico de sífilis se empleó en primera instancia la prueba rápida Determine TP a todas las participantes, posteriormente se aplicó de la misma manera la prueba de VDRL-látex. Los casos positivos se confirmaron con la prueba FTA-ABS. Resultados. La prevalencia de sífilis materna serológicamente activa fue de 0.3% (4/1322). Utilizando como pruebas de referencia la combinación de VDRL y FTA-ABS, Determine TP mostró una sensibilidad y una especificidad de 100%. De las mujeres seropositivas nacieron dos neonatos con FTA-ABS IgM positiva, en otra con FTA-ABS IgM negativa y la restante tuvo un aborto en el primer trimestre. En el transcurso del control prenatal la realización de la prueba de anticuerpos reagínicos por VDRL fue de 6.9% en la muestra de mujeres analizadas. Conclusiones. Si bien la frecuencia observada de sífilis materna es relativamente baja, los resultados encontrados en este estudio sugieren que la prevalencia de sífilis es mayor a la informada de manera global por la Dirección General de Epidemiología. El escrutinio sistemático de sífilis con pruebas rápidas en embarazadas, coadyuvaría a la prevención de la sífilis congénita.

Seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection in pregnancy in a tertiary care hospital.

BACKGROUND: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) /Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is increasing at an alarming rate globally. It has now become a major challenge & threat to public health. HIV infection in women occur primarily during their reproductive years, hence pregnancy provides a unique opportunity for implementing prevention strategies against HIV infection. If we estimate seroprevalence in pregnancy, the effective & timely intervention will reduce the transmission of infection to newborns. AIMS: To study the seroprevalence of HIV infection in pregnancy in a tertiary care hospital. SETTING: Antenatal Care Clinic of a Tertiary Care Hospital. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Blood samples of all the pregnant women with written consent were collected and tested for HIV antibodies as per National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) guidelines over a period from September 2002 to August 2004. However only those who were HIV sero-reactive were included in this study. Spouses of sero-reactive pregnant women were also counselled and tested. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test. RESULTS: Out of the total 10683 blood samples from pregnant women tested, 147 (1.38%) were found to be HIV sero-reactive. Sero-reactive cases when compiled year-wise, showed increase in the seroprevalence from 1.24% in September 2002 -- August 2003 to 1.45% in September 2003 -- August 2004. Majority 69 (46.94%) sero-reactive pregnant women were in the age group of 19--24 years followed by 25--29 years age group (31.29%). Out of 88 spouses of HIV sero-reactive pregnant women, 85 (96.59%) were found to be HIV sero-reactive. CONCLUSION: In the present study, seroprevalence of HIV infection was found to be 1.38% amongst pregnant women.