1
|
Vicente M, Carocha AI, Rijo C, Cohen Á, Martins ML. Cytomegalovirus congenital infection: long-term outcomes in a valaciclovir treated population. J Perinat Med 2024; 52:778-782. [PMID: 38943320 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2023-0535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This case series aims to evaluate the long-term outcomes of congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in a population treated with valaciclovir during pregnancy. The study focuses on assessing the prevalence of long-term sequelae in infants with confirmed CMV fetal infection. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on 33 pregnancies corresponding to 34 fetus with confirmed CMV congenital infection. They were followed from November 2004 to December 2020. Valaciclovir treatment was initiated after confirmation of fetal infection, and fetal outcomes were monitored through serial ultrasounds, neurosonography, and fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Postnatal assessments included: PCR confirmation, symptoms evaluation at birth, and long-term follow-up protocols for visual, auditory, and neurodevelopmental assessment. RESULTS Therapy was started at a median gestational age of 24 weeks. Of the 34 newborns 79.4 % were asymptomatic at birth. Median follow-up time was 6 years and 32.35 % developed long-term sequelae. Neurosensorial hearing loss (SNHL) was the predominant sequelae. In the cases which developed sequelae 54.5 % had imaging findings, and all with major findings developed long-term sequelae. CONCLUSIONS In our treated population we had a higher asymptomatic rate at birth comparing with a non-treated population, similar to those found in previous studies. We had a long-term sequelae rate of 32.35 %, similar to recent studies on non-treated population, although we registered a slightly lower rate of SNHL. A larger multicenter studies with a longer follow-up time, where treatment is started in the first trimester, is of the utmost importance, so we can truly understand the correlation between these imaging findings, therapy and long-term sequelae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vicente
- Fetal Medicine and Surgery Department, Maternidade Dr. Alfredo da Costa - Unidade Local de Saúde de São José , Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana I Carocha
- Fetal Medicine and Surgery Department, Maternidade Dr. Alfredo da Costa - Unidade Local de Saúde de São José , Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Claúdia Rijo
- Fetal Medicine and Surgery Department, Maternidade Dr. Alfredo da Costa - Unidade Local de Saúde de São José , Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Álvaro Cohen
- Fetal Medicine and Surgery Department, Maternidade Dr. Alfredo da Costa - Unidade Local de Saúde de São José , Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria L Martins
- Fetal Medicine and Surgery Department, Maternidade Dr. Alfredo da Costa - Unidade Local de Saúde de São José , Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pomar L, Sichitiu J, Baud D. Fetal blood sampling in cytomegalovirus infection: balancing the risks and benefits. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 231:e109. [PMID: 38702022 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Léo Pomar
- Ultrasound and Fetal Medicine Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; School of Health Sciences (HESAV), HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Avenue de Beaumont 21, Western Switzerland, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Joanna Sichitiu
- Ultrasound and Fetal Medicine Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Baud
- Ultrasound and Fetal Medicine Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sadan OR, Avisdris N, Rabinowich A, Link-Sourani D, Krajden Haratz K, Garel C, Hiersch L, Ben Sira L, Ben Bashat D. Brain Metabolite Differences in Fetuses With Cytomegalovirus Infection: A Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study. J Magn Reson Imaging 2024. [PMID: 38979886 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.29507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common intrauterine infection and may be associated with unfavorable outcomes. While some CMV-infected fetuses may show gross or subtle brain abnormalities on MRI, their clinical significance may be unclear. Conversely, normal development cannot be guaranteed in CMV-infected fetuses with normal MRI. PURPOSE To assess brain metabolite differences in CMV-infected fetuses using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). STUDY TYPE Retrospective. SUBJECTS Out of a cohort of 149 cases, 44 with maternal CMV infection, amniocentesis results, and good-quality MRS were included. CMV-infected fetuses with positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (N = 35) were divided based on MRI results as follows: typical brain abnormalities (gross findings, N = 8), exclusive white matter hyperintense signal (WMHS) on T2-weighted images (subtle findings, N = 7), and normal MRI (N = 20). Uninfected fetuses (negative PCR) with normal MRI were included as controls (N = 9). FIELD STRENGTH 3 T, T2-weighted half Fourier single-shot turbo spin-echo (HASTE), T2-weighted true fast imaging with steady-state free precession (TrueFISP), T1- and T2*-weighted fast low angle shot (FLASH), and 1H-MRS single-voxel point resolved spectroscopy (PRESS) sequences. ASSESSMENT MRI findings were assessed by three radiologists, and metabolic ratios within the basal ganglia were calculated using LCModel. STATISTICAL TESTS Analysis of covariance test with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons was used to compare metabolic ratios between groups while accounting for gestational age. A P-value <0.05 was deemed significant. RESULTS MRS was successfully acquired in 63% of fetuses. Substantial agreement was observed between radiologists (Fleiss' kappa [k] = 0.8). Infected fetuses with gross MRI findings exhibited significantly reduced tNAA/tCr ratios (0.64 ± 0.08) compared with infected fetuses with subtle MRI findings (0.85 ± 0.19), infected fetuses with normal MRI (0.8 ± 0.14) and controls (0.81 ± 0.15). No other significant differences were detected (P ≥ 0.261). CONCLUSION Reduced tNAA/tCr within the apparently normal brain tissue was detected in CMV-infected fetuses with gross brain abnormalities, suggesting extensive brain damage. In CMV-infected fetuses with isolated WMHS, no damage was detected by MRS. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Or R Sadan
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Netanell Avisdris
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aviad Rabinowich
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Radiology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Daphna Link-Sourani
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Technion Human MRI Research Center, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Karina Krajden Haratz
- Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Hospital for Women, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Catherine Garel
- Department of Radiology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Liran Hiersch
- Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lis Hospital for Women, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Liat Ben Sira
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Radiology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Dafna Ben Bashat
- Sagol Brain Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mappa I, Di Mascio D, Carbone L, Lu JLA, Sorrenti S, Patelli C, D’Amico A, Matarrelli B, Giuliani GA, Neola D, Di Girolamo R, Sarno L, Khalil A, Rizzo G, Maruotti GM, D’Antonio F. Sonographic Cortical Development and Anomalies in the Fetus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1397. [PMID: 39061971 PMCID: PMC11273757 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this systematic review is to report the normal cortical development of different fetal cerebral fissures on ultrasound, describe associated anomalies in fetuses with cortical malformations, and evaluate the quality of published charts of cortical fissures. The inclusion criteria were studies reporting development, anomalies, and reference charts of fetal cortical structures on ultrasound. The outcomes observed were the timing of the appearance of different cortical fissures according to different gestational age windows, associated central nervous system (CNS) and extra-CNS anomalies detected at ultrasound in fetuses with cortical malformation, and rate of fetuses with isolated anomaly. Furthermore, we performed a critical evaluation of the published reference charts for cortical development on ultrasound. Random-effect meta-analyses of proportions were used to combine the data. Twenty-seven studies (6875 fetuses) were included. Sylvian fissure was visualized on ultrasound in 97.69% (95% CI 92.0-100) of cases at 18-19, 98.17% (95% CI 94.8-99.8) at 20-21, 98.94% (95% CI 97.0-99.9) at 22-23, and in all cases from 24 weeks of gestation. Parieto-occipital fissure was visualized in 81.56% (95% CI 48.4-99.3) of cases at 18-19, 96.59% (95% CI 83.2-99.8) at 20-21, 96.85% (95% CI 88.8-100) at 22-23, and in all cases from 24 weeks of gestation, while the corresponding figures for calcarine fissure were 37.27% (95% CI 0.5-89.6), 80.42% (95% CI 50.2-98.2), 89.18% (95% CI 74.0-98.2), and 96.02% (95% CI 96.9-100). Malformations of cortical development were diagnosed as an isolated finding at ultrasound in 6.21% (95% CI 2.9-10.9) of cases, while they were associated with additional CNS anomalies in 93.79% (95% CI 89.1-97.2) of cases. These findings highlight the need for large studies specifically looking at the timing of the appearance of the different brain sulci. Standardized algorithms for prenatal assessment of fetuses at high risk of malformations of cortical development are also warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Mappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (C.P.); (G.R.)
| | - Daniele Di Mascio
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Luigi Carbone
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Jia Li Angela Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (C.P.); (G.R.)
| | - Sara Sorrenti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Chiara Patelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (C.P.); (G.R.)
| | - Alice D’Amico
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Barbara Matarrelli
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Giulia Andrea Giuliani
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Daniele Neola
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy (G.M.M.)
| | - Raffaella Di Girolamo
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy (G.M.M.)
| | - Laura Sarno
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Asma Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George’s University Hospital, London SW17 0QT, UK
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
- Twins Trust Centre for Research and Clinical Excellence, St George’s University Hospital, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Giuseppe Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (C.P.); (G.R.)
| | - Giuseppe Maria Maruotti
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy (G.M.M.)
| | - Francesco D’Antonio
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Snijders BMG, Peters MJL, van den Brink S, van Trijp MJCA, de Jong PA, Vissers LATM, Verduyn Lunel FM, Emmelot-Vonk MH, Koek HL. Infectious Diseases and Basal Ganglia Calcifications: A Cross-Sectional Study in Patients with Fahr's Disease and Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2365. [PMID: 38673641 PMCID: PMC11050861 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13082365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: It is unclear whether patients with basal ganglia calcifications (BGC) should undergo infectious disease testing as part of their diagnostic work-up. We investigated the occurrence of possibly associated infections in patients with BGC diagnosed with Fahr's disease or syndrome and consecutively performed a systematic review of published infectious diseases associated with BGC. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, we evaluated infections in non-immunocompromised patients aged ≥ 18 years with BGC in the Netherlands, who were diagnosed with Fahr's disease or syndrome after an extensive multidisciplinary diagnostic work-up. Pathogens that were assessed included the following: Brucella sp., cytomegalovirus, human herpesvirus type 6/8, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Mycobacterium tuberculosis, rubella virus, and Toxoplasma gondii. Next, a systematic review was performed using MEDLINE and Embase (2002-2023). Results: The cross-sectional study included 54 patients (median age 65 years). We did not observe any possible related infections to the BGC in this population. Prior infection with Toxoplasma gondii occurred in 28%, and in 94%, IgG rubella antibodies were present. The positive tests were considered to be incidental findings by the multidisciplinary team since these infections are only associated with BGC when congenitally contracted and all patients presented with adult-onset symptoms. The systematic search yielded 47 articles, including 24 narrative reviews/textbooks and 23 original studies (11 case series, 6 cross-sectional and 4 cohort studies, and 2 systematic reviews). Most studies reported congenital infections associated with BGC (cytomegalovirus, HIV, rubella virus, Zika virus). Only two studies reported acquired pathogens (chronic active Epstein-Barr virus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis). The quality of evidence was low. Conclusions: In our cross-sectional study and systematic review, we found no convincing evidence that acquired infections are causing BGC in adults. Therefore, we argue against routine testing for infections in non-immunocompromised adults with BGC in Western countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Birgitta M. G. Snijders
- Department of Geriatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mike J. L. Peters
- Department of Geriatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Pim A. de Jong
- Department of Radiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Laurens A. T. M. Vissers
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frans M. Verduyn Lunel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Huiberdina L. Koek
- Department of Geriatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
D'Alberti E, Rizzo G, Khalil A, Mappa I, Pietrolucci ME, Capannolo G, Alameddine S, Sorrenti S, Zullo F, Giancotti A, Di Mascio D, D'Antonio F. Counseling in fetal medicine: Congenital cytomegalovirus infection. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 295:8-17. [PMID: 38310675 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Although the clinical work-up of CMV in pregnancy has gradually become more accurate, counseling for CMV is still challenging. Despite the potential feasibility of universal prenatal serological screening, its introduction in prenatal diagnosis continues to raise concerns related to its real cost-effectiveness. Contextually, anticipating the confirmation of fetal infection earlier in pregnancy is one of the most pressing issues to reduce the parental psychological burden. Amniocentesis is still the gold standard and recent data have demonstrated that it could be performed before 20 weeks of gestation, provided that at least 8 weeks have elapsed from the presumed date of maternal seroconversion. New approaches, such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and virome DNA, even if not yet validated as confirmation of fetal infection, have been studied alternatively to amniocentesis to reduce the time-interval from maternal seroconversion and the amniocentesis results. Risk stratification for sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and long-term sequelae should be provided according to the prognostic predictors. Nevertheless, in the era of valacyclovir, maternal high-dose therapy, mainly for first trimester infections, can reduce the risk of vertical transmission and increase the likelihood of asymptomatic newborns, but it is still unclear whether valacyclovir continues to exert a beneficial effect on fetuses with positive amniocentesis. This review provides updated evidence-based key counseling points with GRADE recommendations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena D'Alberti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Asma Khalil
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, London, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Fetal Medicine Unit, Liverpool Women's Hospital, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Ilenia Mappa
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine Ospedale Cristo Re, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Pietrolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Capannolo
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Italy
| | - Sara Alameddine
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Italy
| | - Sara Sorrenti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Zullo
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Giancotti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Di Mascio
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesco D'Antonio
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kyriakopoulou A, Papaevangelou V, Argyropoulou M, Papathanasiou M, Xydis V, Giorgi M, Ntorkou A, Chlapoutaki C, Alexopoulou E. Fetal brain imaging provides valuable information in cCMV infected infants. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2023; 36:2220564. [PMID: 37290964 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2023.2220564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital CMV infection (cCMV) is the most common congenital infection with 10-15% of cases developing symptomatic disease. Early antiviral treatment is of essence when symptomatic disease is suspected. Recently, the use of neonatal imaging has been implicated as a prognostic tool for long term sequalae among asymptomatic newborns at high risk. Even though neonatal MRI is commonly used in neonatal symptomatic cCMV disease, it is less often used in asymptomatic newborns, mainly due to cost, access and difficulty to perform. We have therefore developed an interest in assessing the use of fetal imaging as an alternative. Our primary aim was to compare the fetal and neonatal MRIs in a small cohort 10 asymptomatic neonates with congenital CMV infection. METHODS We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study (case-series) on a convenience sample of children born from January 2014 to March 2021 with confirmed congenital CMV infection who had undergone both fetal and neonatal MRIs. We created a checklist of relevant cerebral abnormalities and asked 4 blinded radiologists to assess the MRIs (2 for each, namely fetal and neonatal) and then compared the findings between the fetal and neonatal imaging as well as the concordance in reporting of abnormalities within each category. FINDINGS Overall concordance between prenatal and postnatal scans was high (70%). When comparing the two blinded reports for each MRI, we found high levels of concordance: 90% concordance for fetal MRIs and 100% for neonatal MRIs. The most common abnormalities identified in both fetal and neonatal scans were "abnormal white matter hyperintensity" and "subependymal cysts." INTERPRETATION Even though this is a small descriptive study, it indicates that fetal MRI could potentially provide us with similar information as neonatal imaging. This study could form the basis for subsequent larger future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Kyriakopoulou
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Third Department of Paediatrics, Attikon General University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - V Papaevangelou
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Third Department of Paediatrics, Attikon General University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - M Argyropoulou
- Department of Radiology Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - M Papathanasiou
- School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 2nd Department of Radiology, General University Hospital Attikon, Athens, Greece
| | - V Xydis
- Department of Radiology Medical School, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - M Giorgi
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Third Department of Paediatrics, Attikon General University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - A Ntorkou
- Department of Paediatric Radiology, Robert Debré University Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | | | - E Alexopoulou
- School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 2nd Department of Radiology, General University Hospital Attikon, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Schneider MO, Faschingbauer F, Kagan KO, Groß U, Enders M, Kehl S. Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Pregnancy - Recommendations of the Working Group on Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine (AGG - Section on Maternal Disorders). Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2023; 83:1431-1445. [PMID: 38046526 PMCID: PMC10689109 DOI: 10.1055/a-2111-7394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim The AGG (Working Group for Obstetrics and Prenatal Diagnostics, Section Maternal Diseases) has issued these recommendations to improve the detection and management of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnancy. Methods Members of the Task Force developed the recommendations and statements presented here using recently published literature. The recommendations were adopted after a consensus process by members of the working group. Recommendations This article focuses on the epidemiology and pathophysiology of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnancy and includes recommendations for maternal and fetal diagnosis, transmission prophylaxis, therapy, prevention, screening, and peripartum management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Oliver Schneider
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Florian Faschingbauer
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Karl Oliver Kagan
- Department for Womenʼs Health, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Uwe Groß
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Medical Centre Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Martin Enders
- Laboratory Prof. Gisela Enders and Colleagues, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Sven Kehl
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Vena F, Mazza A, Bartolone M, Vasta A, D'Alberti E, Di Mascio D, D'Ambrosio V, Volpe G, Signore F, Pizzuti A, Giancotti A. Hyperechogenic fetal bowel: Current evidence-based prenatal diagnosis and management. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2023; 51:1172-1178. [PMID: 37553773 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Echogenic fetal bowel (EB) is a prenatal ultrasound finding (0.2%-1.4% of all pregnancies) defined as bowel of similar or greater echogenicity than surrounding bone. In fact, the ultrasound assessment is strongly subjective with inter-observer variability. The pathophysiology depends on the underlying condition, apparently related with meconium stasis and hypercellularity. It is often an isolated finding, with possible association with other structural anomalies. About the origin, it was observed in fetuses with cystic fibrosis, congenital infections, thalassemia, intraamniotic bleeding, fetal growth restriction. Fetuses with EB are at increased risk of adverse perinatal outcome, such as intrauterine growth restriction, placental dysfunction and perinatal death, highlighting the need for a thorough antenatal management and post-natal follow-up. It seems to be associated with a plenty of conditions, such as a poor fetal outcome, fetal growth restriction and placental dysfunction. Therefore management requires a multidisciplinary approach with different specialties' involvement and the prognosis is influenced by the underlying pathophysiology. In this complex scenario, the present review aims to define the clinical pathway which should be offered to pregnant women in case of finding of fetal EB ultrasound marker, to rule out any suspected pathological cause.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flaminia Vena
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Mazza
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Bartolone
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Adele Vasta
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena D'Alberti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Di Mascio
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina D'Ambrosio
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Signore
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, USL Roma 2, Sant'Eugenio Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Pizzuti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Giancotti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Guibaud L, Massoud M. Does fetal cerebral magnetic resonance imaging have additional value in cytomegalovirus fetopathy with normal neurosonography? ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 62:305-306. [PMID: 37523512 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Linked article: This Correspondence comments on Di Mascio et al. Click here to view the article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Guibaud
- Département d'Imagerie Pédiatrique et Faetal, Centre Pluridisciplinaire de Diagnostic Prénatal, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon-Bron, France
| | - M Massoud
- Centre Pluridisciplinaire de Diagnostic Prénatal, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Pierre-Benite, France
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
D'Antonio F, Di Mascio D, Rizzo G. Reply: Neurosonography and magnetic resonance imaging for cytomegalovirus infection - integration of imaging modalities is key. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 62:306-307. [PMID: 37523513 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- F D'Antonio
- Centre for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - D Di Mascio
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
D'Antonio F, Khalil A. Reply. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 61:540-541. [PMID: 37011079 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- F D'Antonio
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - A Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, London, UK
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Liverpool Women's Hospital, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
D'Antonio F, Marinceu D, Prasad S, Khalil A. Effectiveness and safety of prenatal valacyclovir for congenital cytomegalovirus infection: systematic review and meta-analysis. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 61:436-444. [PMID: 36484439 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Universal screening for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in pregnancy is not recommended in most countries. One of the major deterrents is the lack of effective prenatal therapy. The role of valacyclovir therapy in reducing the risk of vertical transmission, symptomatic congenital CMV infection and adverse outcome is controversial. The main aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the safety and effectiveness of prenatal valacyclovir therapy in pregnancies with maternal CMV infection. METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched. The inclusion criteria were pregnancy with confirmed maternal CMV infection, treated or untreated with valacyclovir. The primary outcome was the incidence of congenital CMV infection confirmed by a positive CMV polymerase chain reaction result of the amniotic fluid. The secondary outcomes were symptomatic and asymptomatic infection, perinatal death, termination of pregnancy, anomalies detected on follow-up ultrasound, on fetal magnetic resonance imaging or at birth, severe and mild-to-moderate symptoms due to congenital CMV infection, neurological, visual and hearing symptoms, and adverse events related to valacyclovir. Risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2) or Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool, as appropriate. Head-to-head meta-analyses were used to compare the risk of each of the explored outcomes according to whether pregnancies with maternal CMV infection were treated with prenatal valacyclovir therapy. RESULTS Eight studies (620 women) were included. Pregnancies treated with valacyclovir had a significantly lower risk of congenital CMV infection compared with those not receiving valacyclovir (three studies; 325 fetuses; pooled odds ratio (OR), 0.37 (95% CI, 0.21-0.64); I2 = 0%; P < 0.001). When stratifying the analysis according to gestational age at maternal infection, the risk of vertical transmission was significantly lower in pregnancies receiving valacyclovir following first-trimester maternal infection (three studies; 184 fetuses; pooled OR, 0.34 (95% CI, 0.15-0.74); I2 = 20.9%; P = 0.001), while there was no significant difference between the two groups in those acquiring CMV infection in the periconceptional period or in the third trimester of pregnancy. Only one study reported on the risk of vertical transmission in women infected in the second trimester, demonstrating a lower risk of congenital infection in women taking valacyclovir, although this was based on a small number of cases. Pregnancies treated with valacyclovir therapy had an increased likelihood of asymptomatic congenital CMV infection compared with those not receiving valacyclovir (two studies; 132 fetuses; pooled OR, 2.98 (95% CI, 1.18-7.55); I2 = 0%; P = 0.021), while there was no significant difference between the two groups in the risk of perinatal death (P = 0.923), termination of pregnancy (P = 0.089), anomalies detected at follow-up imaging assessment during pregnancy or at birth (P = 0.934) and symptoms due to CMV infection in the newborn (P = 0.092). The occurrence of all adverse events in pregnant individuals taking valacyclovir was 3.17% (95% CI, 1.24-5.93%) (six studies; 210 women), with 1.71% (95% CI, 0.41-3.39%) experiencing acute renal failure, which resolved after discontinuation of the drug. On GRADE assessment, the quality of evidence showing that valacyclovir reduced the risk of congenital CMV infection and adverse perinatal outcome was very low. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal valacyclovir administration in pregnancies with maternal CMV infection reduces the risk of congenital CMV infection. Further evidence is needed to elucidate whether valacyclovir can affect the course of infection in the fetus and the risk of symptomatic fetal or neonatal infection. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F D'Antonio
- Center for Fetal Care and High-Risk Pregnancy, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - D Marinceu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The York Hospital, York, UK
| | - S Prasad
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of London, London, UK
| | - A Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of London, London, UK
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Liverpool Women's Hospital, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|