SOMANZ guidelines for the investigation and management sepsis in pregnancy

Maternal Sepsis

Sepsis is the second leading cause of pregnancy-related mortality in the United States. Early recognition, treatment, and escalation of care for the obstetric patient affected by sepsis mitigate the risk of mortality and improve patient outcomes. In this article, we provide an overview of maternal sepsis and address topics of maternal pathophysiology, early warning signs, diagnostic criteria, early goal-directed therapy, and contemporary critical care practices. We also present an overview of common etiologies of maternal sepsis and suggested treatment approaches.

Understanding maternal sepsis risk factors and bacterial etiology: A case control study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Maternal disorders are the third leading cause of sepsis globally, accounting for 5.7 million (12%) cases in 2017. There are increasing concerns about the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria commonly causing maternal sepsis. Our aim is to describe the protocol for a clinical and microbiology laboratory study to understand risk factors for and the bacterial etiology of maternal sepsis in a tertiary Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital.

METHODS

This case-control study aims to recruit 100 cases and 200 controls at Tu Du Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, which had approximately 55,000 births in 2022. Women aged ≥ 18 years and ≥ 28 weeks gestation having a singleton birth will be eligible for inclusion as cases or controls, unless they have an uncomplicated localised or chronic infection, or an infection with SARS-CoV-2. Cases will include pregnant or recently pregnant women with sepsis recognised between the onset of labour and/or time of delivery/cessation of pregnancy for up to 42 days post-partum. Sepsis will be defined as suspected or confirmed infection with an obstetrically modified Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score of ≥ 2, treatment with intravenous antimicrobials and requested cultures of any bodily fluid. Controls will be matched by age, location, parity, mode of delivery and gestational age. Primary and secondary outcomes are risk factors associated with the development of maternal sepsis, the frequency of adverse outcomes due to maternal sepsis, bacterial etiology and AMR profiles of cases and controls.

DISCUSSION

This study will improve understanding of the epidemiology and clinical implications of maternal sepsis management including the presence of AMR in women giving birth in Vietnam. It will help us to determine whether women in this setting are receiving optimal care and to identify opportunities for improvement.

SOMANZ position statement for the investigation and management of sepsis in pregnancy 2023

BACKGROUND

The Society of Australia and New Zealand (SOMANZ) published its first sepsis in pregnancy and the postpartum period guideline in 2017 (Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol, 57, 2017, 540). In the intervening 6 years, maternal mortality from sepsis has remained static.

AIMS

To update clinical practice with a review of the subsequent literature. In particular, to review the definition and screening tools for the diagnosis of sepsis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A multi-disciplinary group of clinicians with experience in all aspects of the care of pregnant women analysed the clinical evidence according to the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system following searches of Cochrane, Medline and EMBASE. Where there were conflicting views, the authors reviewed the topic and came to a consensus. All authors reviewed the final position statement.

RESULTS

This position statement has abandoned the use of the quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score (qSOFA) score to diagnose sepsis due to its poor performance in clinical practice. Whilst New Zealand has a national maternity observation chart, in Australia maternity early warning system charts and vital sign cut-offs differ between states. Rapid recognition, early antimicrobials and involvement of senior staff remain essential factors to improving outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Ongoing research is required to discover and validate tools to recognize and diagnose sepsis in pregnancy. Australia should follow New Zealand and have a single national maternity early warning system observation chart.

Association of Peripartum Lactate Levels With Infection Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether lactate levels were associated with maternal infection and infection-related outcomes in the antepartum, intrapartum, and early postpartum periods.

DESIGN

Retrospective, observational cohort.

SETTING

Eleven hospitals from a single health system.

PARTICIPANTS

Women (N = 783) with at least one lactate and blood culture test for obstetric sepsis screening in the antepartum period (n = 154), intrapartum period (n = 348), and early postpartum period (n = 281) from January 2, 2018, to October 21, 2020.

METHODS

We reported the proportion of participants with adverse outcomes by lactate cut points (≤2.0 and >2.0 mmol/L). We used logistic regression to model the association of infection-related outcomes with lactate levels and calculated receiver operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS

Lactate was associated with bacteremia among participants in the antepartum period (odds ratio [OR] = 1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.00, 2.56]) but not among participants in the intrapartum and early postpartum periods. Higher lactate levels were significantly associated with a composite measure of infection-related outcomes (OR = 1.41, 95% CI [1.14, 1.81]), with no differential association by antepartum, intrapartum, or early postpartum periods. Lactate levels were positively associated with intraamniotic infection in the antepartum period (OR = 1.57, 95% CI [1.06, 1.81]) but not in the intrapartum period. The receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that the lactate threshold of 2.0 mmol/L has poor sensitivity. Overall, participants in the antepartum period had lower lactate values than participants in the intrapartum and early postpartum periods.

CONCLUSION

Lactate levels were not consistently associated with infection-related measures across all periods. We suggest caution when interpreting lactate levels when sepsis is suspected.

A Prospective Study of Lactate Levels in Uncomplicated Spontaneous and Induced Labor

OBJECTIVE

 Maternal pushing can yield lactate levels that are above the normal range for nonpregnant individuals. Many hospitals require lactate levels as part of sepsis bundles, and this can confuse the clinicians when measured during labor. The objective of this study was to observe lactate levels in uncomplicated labor.

STUDY DESIGN

 This was a prospective study of patients presenting to Labor and Delivery in early labor. Patients met inclusion criteria if they presented at 37 weeks' gestation or greater and were either 3 to 4 cm dilated, in early labor with rupture of membranes less than 12 hours, or were being induced for oligohydramnios or postdates gestation. A baseline maternal lactate level was collected at enrollment. Further levels were collected at complete cervical dilation and every 30 minutes during the second stage of labor up to 3 hours or until delivery.

RESULTS

 From January 7, 2021, through December 30, 2021, a total of 148 screened patients met the inclusion criteria and 38 were enrolled. Eight (21%) patients withdrew after baseline lactate level was drawn. Twenty-three (61%) patients had a level drawn at complete dilation. Of the 12 (32%) patients with a lactate level drawn at complete and after 30 minutes of pushing, the mean change in lactate level was 2.0 ± 1.8 mmol/L or 0.07 ± 0.06 mmol/L/min (p < 0.01). This change is more pronounced in the second stage of labor for patients with chorioamnionitis (2.6 mmol/L), although this difference is not statistically significant (p = 0.41).

CONCLUSION

 Lactate levels increase significantly once a patient reaches complete cervical dilation within 30 minutes of pushing. This increase is more pronounced, although significantly, in patients with chorioamnionitis. As sepsis is one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality, this pilot study is relevant for providers to see the natural course of lactate levels in labor.

KEY POINTS

· The change in lactate level during normal labor is unknown.. · We measured lactate levels in uncomplicated labor.. · Lactate levels can be elevated in uncomplicated labor..

Antimicrobial stewardship and targeted therapies in the changing landscape of maternal sepsis

Pregnant and postnatal women are a high-risk population particularly prone to rapid progression to sepsis with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Moreover, severe maternal infections can have a serious detrimental impact on neonates with almost 1 million neonatal deaths annually attributed to maternal infection or sepsis. In this review we discuss the susceptibility of pregnant women and their specific physiological and immunological adaptations that contribute to their vulnerability to sepsis, the implications for the neonate, as well as the issues with antimicrobial stewardship and the challenges this poses when attempting to reach a balance between clinical care and urgent treatment. Finally, we review advancements in the development of pregnancy-specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches and how these can be used to optimize the care of pregnant women and neonates.

The microbial pathology of maternal perinatal sepsis: A single-institution retrospective five-year review

INTRODUCTION

Greater than half of in-hospital maternal deaths are caused by sepsis, a condition that occurs when infection exceeds local tissue containment and results in organ dysfunction. Determining the source of infection can be challenging. Microbiological cultures of the uterine cavity are often difficult to obtain, so antimicrobial susceptibility results may not be available to guide treatment. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the potential clinical value of microbiology samples used in the maternal "septic screen" of patients in an Irish maternity hospital.

METHODS

A review was completed of all maternal "septic screen" (i.e., high vaginal swabs, placenta swabs, blood cultures, throat swabs and urine samples) microbiology results from July 2016 to December 2021.

RESULTS

In the relevant period, 845 patients were subject to a "septic screen", of whom 430 also had a placental swab collected. These 430 patients comprise our study population. 2% of blood cultures yielded potential pathogens, compared with 37%, 33%, 9% and 7% respectively for placental swabs, high vaginal swabs, throat swabs and urine specimens. 95% of blood cultures were sterile, compared with 52%, 0%, 0% and 53% respectively for placental swabs, high vaginal swabs, throat swabs and urine specimens.

CONCLUSION

Of the five microbiological specimen types examined, placental swabs yielded the highest number of potential pathogens. Our results suggest that placental swabs are useful specimens for detecting potential pathogens from the uterine cavity, the most common source of perinatal infections.

A biomarker for bacteremia in pregnant women with acute pyelonephritis: soluble suppressor of tumorigenicity 2 or sST2

Objective: Sepsis is a leading cause of maternal death, and its diagnosis during the golden hour is critical to improve survival. Acute pyelonephritis in pregnancy is a risk factor for obstetrical and medical complications, and it is a major cause of sepsis, as bacteremia complicates 15-20% of pyelonephritis episodes in pregnancy. The diagnosis of bacteremia currently relies on blood cultures, whereas a rapid test could allow timely management and improved outcomes. Soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2) was previously proposed as a biomarker for sepsis in non-pregnant adults and children. This study was designed to determine whether maternal plasma concentrations of sST2 in pregnant patients with pyelonephritis can help to identify those at risk for bacteremia.Study design: This cross-sectional study included women with normal pregnancy (n = 131) and pregnant women with acute pyelonephritis (n = 36). Acute pyelonephritis was diagnosed based on a combination of clinical findings and a positive urine culture. Patients were further classified according to the results of blood cultures into those with and without bacteremia. Plasma concentrations of sST2 were determined by a sensitive immunoassay. Non-parametric statistics were used for analysis.Results: The maternal plasma sST2 concentration increased with gestational age in normal pregnancies. Pregnant patients with acute pyelonephritis had a higher median (interquartile range) plasma sST2 concentration than those with a normal pregnancy [85 (47-239) ng/mL vs. 31 (14-52) ng/mL, p < .001]. Among patients with pyelonephritis, those with a positive blood culture had a median plasma concentration of sST2 higher than that of patients with a negative blood culture [258 (IQR: 75-305) ng/mL vs. 83 (IQR: 46-153) ng/mL; p = .03]. An elevated plasma concentration of sST2 ≥ 215 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 73% and a specificity of 95% (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.74; p = .003) with a positive likelihood ratio of 13.8 and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.3 for the identification of patients who had a positive blood culture.Conclusion: sST2 is a candidate biomarker to identify bacteremia in pregnant women with pyelonephritis. Rapid identification of these patients may optimize patient care.

Factors Associated with Increased Risk of Urosepsis during Pregnancy and Treatment Outcomes, in a Urology Clinic

Background and Objectives: Urosepsis is a significant cause of maternal and fetal mortality. While certain risk factors for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in pregnant women are well established, those associated with an elevated risk of urosepsis in pregnant women with upper UTIs remain less defined. This study aims to identify factors linked to an increased risk of urosepsis and examine urologic treatment outcomes in such cases. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis on 66 pregnant women diagnosed with urosepsis over a nine-year period. A control group included 164 pregnant women with upper UTIs, excluding urosepsis, admitted during the same timeframe. This study highlights factors potentially contributing to urosepsis risk, including comorbidities like anemia, pregnancy-related hydronephrosis or secondary to reno-ureteral lithiasis, prior UTIs, coexisting urological conditions, and urologic procedures. Outcomes of urologic treatments, hospitalization duration, obstetric transfers due to fetal distress, and complications associated with double-J catheters were analyzed. Results: Pregnant women with urosepsis exhibited a higher prevalence of anemia (69.7% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.006), 2nd-3rd grade hydronephrosis (81.8% vs. 52.8%, p = 0.001), and fever over 38 °C (89.4% vs. 42.1%, p = 0.001). They also had a more intense inflammatory syndrome (leukocyte count 18,191 ± 6414 vs. 14,350 ± 3860/mmc, p = 0.001, and C-reactive protein (CRP) 142.70 ± 83.50 vs. 72.76 ± 66.37 mg/dL, p = 0.001) and higher creatinine levels (0.77 ± 0.81 vs. 0.59 ± 0.22, p = 0.017). On multivariate analysis, factors associated with increased risk for urosepsis were anemia (Odds Ratio (OR) 2.622, 95% CI 1.220-5.634), 2nd-3rd grade hydronephrosis (OR 6.581, 95% CI 2.802-15.460), and fever over 38 °C (OR 11.612, 95% CI 4.804-28.07). Regarding outcomes, the urosepsis group had a higher rate of urological maneuvers (87.9% vs. 36%, p = 0.001), a higher rate of obstetric transfers due to fetal distress (22.7% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.001), and migration of double-J catheters (6.1% vs. 0.6%, p = 0.016), but no maternal fatality was encountered. However, they experienced the same rate of total complications related to double-J catheters (19.69% vs. 12.80%, p > 0.05). The pregnant women in both groups had the infection more frequently on the right kidney, were in the second trimester and were nulliparous. Conclusions: Pregnant women at increased risk for urosepsis include those with anemia, hydronephrosis due to gestational, or reno-ureteral lithiasis, and fever over 38 °C. While the prognosis for pregnant women with urosepsis is generally favorable, urological intervention may not prevent a higher incidence of fetal distress and the need for obstetric transfers compared to pregnant women with uncomplicated upper UTIs.

Validating the performance of 3 sepsis screening tools in patients with clinical chorioamnionitis

BACKGROUND

Maternal sepsis is a leading cause of maternal death in the United States. Approximately two-thirds of maternal deaths because of sepsis are related to delayed recognition or treatment. New early warning systems using a 2-step approach have been developed for the early recognition of sepsis in obstetrics; however, their performance has not been validated.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the performance of 3 primary screening tools introduced by the Society of Obstetric Medicine Australia and New Zealand and the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative for use in the first step of their 2-step early warning systems. The obstetrically modified quick Sequential (sepsis-related) Organ Failure Assessment score tool, the obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome tool, and the obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome 1 tool were evaluated for the early detection of sepsis in patients with clinically diagnosed chorioamnionitis.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study using prospectively collected clinical data at a tertiary care center and an affiliated healthcare system. The electronic health records were searched to identify and verify cases with clinically diagnosed chorioamnionitis between November 2017 and September 2022. The flow sheet for every patient was reviewed to determine when criteria were met for any of the 3 tools. The performance of these tools was analyzed using their sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and receiver operating characteristic curve for the identification of sepsis.

RESULTS

There were 545 cases that had the requisite data for inclusion in the analysis. Of note, 11 patients met the criteria for sepsis. Both the obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome and obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome 1 tools had overall similar test characteristics, which were notably different from the obstetrically modified quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment tool. The screen-positive rate of the obstetrically modified quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment tool (1.5%; 95% confidence interval, 0.6%-2.9%) was lower than that of the obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome tool (60.0%; 95% confidence interval, 55.7%-64.1%) and the obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome 1 tool (50.0%; 95% confidence interval, 45.8%-54.3%). The sensitivities of the obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome tool (100.0%; 95% confidence interval, 71.5%-100.0%) and the obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome 1 tool (100.0%; 95% confidence interval, 71.5%-100.0%) were higher than that of the obstetrically modified quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment tool (18.0%; 95% confidence interval, 2.3%-51.8%). All 3 tools had high negative predictive values; however, their positive predictive values were poor.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that all 3 tools had limitations in screening for sepsis among patients with a clinical diagnosis of chorioamnionitis. The obstetrically modified quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment tool missed more than half of the sepsis cases and, thus, had poor performance as a primary screening tool for sepsis. Both the obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome and obstetrically modified Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome 1 tools captured all sepsis cases; however, they tended to overdetect sepsis.

[Pregnant in the Intensive Care Unit]

Although admission to an intensive care unit during pregnancy is rare, pregnant women may become critically ill due to either obstetric or non-obstetric illness. Whilst critical illness due to obstetric reasons during the peripartum period (e.g. peripartum haemorrhage, HELLP-syndrome) is more common, it is also important to know how to care for critically ill pregnant women with non-obstetric illness (e.g. infection, cardiovascular diseases, neurological diseases, trauma). Physiological changes during pregnancy may affect critical care treatment, variation in standard and target values for blood pressure management or artificial ventilation. Pregnancy specific reference values in interpretation of blood chemistry are important issues to consider. The use of different drugs is inevitable in critical care, knowing which drugs are safe to use during the different stages of pregnancy is essential. Caring for mother and unborn child in the ICU is a challenge, open communication, ethical considerations and interdisciplinary as well as multiprofessional collaborations should be key points when caring for critically ill pregnant patients.

Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Consult Series #67: Maternal sepsis

Maternal sepsis is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, and is a potentially preventable cause of maternal death. This Consult aims to summarize what is known about sepsis and provide guidance for the management of sepsis during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Most studies cited are from the nonpregnant population, but where available, pregnancy data are included. The following are the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine recommendations: (1) we recommend that clinicians consider the diagnosis of sepsis in pregnant or postpartum patients with otherwise unexplained end-organ damage in the presence of a suspected or confirmed infectious process, regardless of the presence of fever (GRADE 1C); (2) we recommend that sepsis and septic shock in pregnancy be considered medical emergencies and that treatment and resuscitation begin immediately (Best Practice); (3) we recommend that hospitals and health systems use a performance improvement program for sepsis in pregnancy with sepsis screening tools and metrics (GRADE 1B); (4) we recommend that institutions develop their own procedures and protocols for the detection of maternal sepsis, avoiding the use of a single screening tool alone (GRADE 1B); (5) we recommend obtaining tests to evaluate for infectious and noninfectious causes of life-threatening organ dysfunction in pregnant and postpartum patients with possible sepsis (Best Practice); (6) we recommend that an evaluation for infectious causes in pregnant or postpartum patients in whom sepsis is suspected or identified includes appropriate microbiologic cultures, including blood, before starting antimicrobial therapy, as long as there are no substantial delays in timely administration of antibiotics (Best Practice); (7) we recommend obtaining a serum lactate level in pregnant or postpartum patients in whom sepsis is suspected or identified (GRADE 1B); (8) in pregnant or postpartum patients with septic shock or a high likelihood of sepsis, we recommend administration of empiric broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy, ideally within 1 hour of recognition (GRADE 1C); (9) after a diagnosis of sepsis in pregnancy is made, we recommend rapid identification or exclusion of an anatomic source of infection and emergency source control when indicated (Best Practice); (10) we recommend early intravenous administration (within the first 3 hours) of 1 to 2 L of balanced crystalloid solutions in sepsis complicated by hypotension or suspected organ hypoperfusion (GRADE 1C); (11) we recommend the use of a balanced crystalloid solution as a first-line fluid for resuscitation in pregnant and postpartum patients with sepsis or septic shock (GRADE 1B); (12) we recommend against the use of starches or gelatin for resuscitation in pregnant and postpartum patients with sepsis or septic shock (GRADE 1A); (13) we recommend ongoing, detailed evaluation of the patient's response to fluid resuscitation guided by dynamic measures of preload (GRADE 1B); (14) we recommend the use of norepinephrine as the first-line vasopressor during pregnancy and the postpartum period with septic shock (GRADE 1C); (15) we suggest using intravenous corticosteroids in pregnant or postpartum patients with septic shock who continue to require vasopressor therapy (GRADE 2B); (16) because of an increased risk of venous thromboembolism in sepsis and septic shock, we recommend the use of pharmacologic venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in pregnant and postpartum patients in septic shock (GRADE 1B); (17) we suggest initiating insulin therapy at a glucose level >180 mg/dL in critically ill pregnant patients with sepsis (GRADE 2C); (18) if a uterine source for sepsis is suspected or confirmed, we recommend prompt delivery or evacuation of uterine contents to achieve source control, regardless of gestational age (GRADE 1C); and (19) because of an increased risk of physical, cognitive, and emotional problems in survivors of sepsis and septic shock, we recommend ongoing comprehensive support for pregnant and postpartum sepsis survivors and their families (Best Practice).

Prevention of maternal and neonatal death/infections with a single oral dose of azithromycin in women in labour in low-income and middle-income countries (A-PLUS): a study protocol for a multinational, randomised placebo-controlled clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

Maternal and neonatal infections are among the most frequent causes of maternal and neonatal mortality, and current antibiotic strategies have been ineffective in preventing many of these deaths. A randomised clinical trial conducted in a single site in The Gambia showed that treatment with an oral dose of 2 g azithromycin versus placebo for all women in labour reduced certain maternal and neonatal infections. However, it is unknown if this therapy reduces maternal and neonatal sepsis and mortality. In a large, multinational randomised trial, we will evaluate the impact of azithromycin given in labour to improve maternal and newborn outcomes.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This randomised, placebo-controlled, multicentre clinical trial includes two primary hypotheses, one maternal and one neonatal. The maternal hypothesis is to test whether a single, prophylactic intrapartum oral dose of 2 g azithromycin given to women in labour will reduce maternal death or sepsis. The neonatal hypothesis will test whether this intervention will reduce intrapartum/neonatal death or sepsis. The intervention is a single, prophylactic intrapartum oral dose of 2 g azithromycin, compared with a single intrapartum oral dose of an identical appearing placebo. A total of 34 000 labouring women from 8 research sites in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Latin America will be randomised with a one-to-one ratio to intervention/placebo. In addition, we will assess antimicrobial resistance in a sample of women and their newborns.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been reviewed and ethics approval obtained from all the relevant ethical review boards at each research site. The results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed journals and national and international scientific forums.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03871491 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03871491?term=NCT03871491&draw=2&rank=1).

Azithromycin to Prevent Sepsis or Death in Women Planning a Vaginal Birth

BACKGROUND

The use of azithromycin reduces maternal infection in women during unplanned cesarean delivery, but its effect on those with planned vaginal delivery is unknown. Data are needed on whether an intrapartum oral dose of azithromycin would reduce maternal and offspring sepsis or death.

METHODS

In this multicountry, placebo-controlled, randomized trial, we assigned women who were in labor at 28 weeks' gestation or more and who were planning a vaginal delivery to receive a single 2-g oral dose of azithromycin or placebo. The two primary outcomes were a composite of maternal sepsis or death and a composite of stillbirth or neonatal death or sepsis. During an interim analysis, the data and safety monitoring committee recommended stopping the trial for maternal benefit.

RESULTS

A total of 29,278 women underwent randomization. The incidence of maternal sepsis or death was lower in the azithromycin group than in the placebo group (1.6% vs. 2.4%), with a relative risk of 0.67 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56 to 0.79; P<0.001), but the incidence of stillbirth or neonatal death or sepsis was similar (10.5% vs. 10.3%), with a relative risk of 1.02 (95% CI, 0.95 to 1.09; P = 0.56). The difference in the maternal primary outcome appeared to be driven mainly by the incidence of sepsis (1.5% in the azithromycin group and 2.3% in the placebo group), with a relative risk of 0.65 (95% CI, 0.55 to 0.77); the incidence of death from any cause was 0.1% in the two groups (relative risk, 1.23; 95% CI, 0.51 to 2.97). Neonatal sepsis occurred in 9.8% and 9.6% of the infants, respectively (relative risk, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.10). The incidence of stillbirth was 0.4% in the two groups (relative risk, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.74 to 1.53); neonatal death within 4 weeks after birth occurred in 1.5% in both groups (relative risk, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.24). Azithromycin was not associated with a higher incidence in adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Among women planning a vaginal delivery, a single oral dose of azithromycin resulted in a significantly lower risk of maternal sepsis or death than placebo but had little effect on newborn sepsis or death. (Funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and others; A-PLUS ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03871491.).

[Sepsis during pregnancy: Key points in 2022]

Sepsis is a severe affection, that requires an urgent and specific treatment sequence. Physiological changes occurring during pregnancy make the diagnosis of sepsis more challenging in this setting, with possible delay in treatment initiation, that in turn is responsible for poorer maternal and fetal outcome. This review aims to summarize current knowledge on the diagnosis and treatment of maternal sepsis, as well as persistent knowledge gaps in the field.

Development of the Sepsis-Associated Adverse Outcomes in Pregnancy Score

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a scoring system-called the Sepsis-Associated Adverse Outcomes in Pregnancy (SAAP) Score-to identify individuals with maternal infection that have composite maternal adverse outcomes (CMAO).

STUDY DESIGN

Using the International Classification of Disease codes, we identified pregnant and postpartum (up to 6 weeks after birth) individuals admitted at our center with a primary diagnosis of infection. The primary outcome was CMAO which included any of the following: maternal intensive care unit admission, surgical intervention, vasopressor use, acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary edema, mechanical ventilation, high-flow nasal cannula, disseminated intravascular coagulation, dialysis, organ failure, venous thromboembolism, or maternal death. Regularized logistic regression was used to identify variables that best discriminate CMAO status. Variables were chosen for inclusion following evaluation of statistical and clinical significance. Model performance was evaluated using area under the curve (AUC) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values.

RESULTS

Of the 23,235 deliveries during the study period, 227 (0.9%) individuals met inclusion criteria and among them CMAO occurred in 39.2% (95% CI: 33.1-45.7%). The SAAP score consisted of six variables (white blood cell count, systolic blood pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, lactic acid, and abnormal diagnostic imaging) with scores ranging from 0 to 11 and a score of ≥7 being abnormal. An abnormal SAAP score had an AUC of 0.80 (95% CI: 0.74-0.86) for CMAO. The sensitivity and specificity of the SAAP score for CMAO was 0.71 (95% CI: 0.60-0.80) and 0.73 (95% CI: 0.64-0.80), respectively. The positive predictive value was 0.62 (95% CI: 0.52-0.72) and negative predictive value was 0.79 (95% CI: 0.71-0.86).

CONCLUSION

Pending external validation, the sixth variable SAAP score may permit early recognition of pregnant and postpartum individuals with infection who are likely to develop adverse maternal outcomes.

KEY POINTS

· Sepsis is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality.. · Early recognition improves maternal sepsis outcomes.. · The SAAP score may permit early recognition of maternal adverse outcomes due to infection..

Obstetric Sepsis: A Review Article

Introduction

The World Health Organization defines obstetric (maternal) sepsis as organ failure caused by infection during pregnancy, childbirth, post-abortion or postpartum period. It is the third most prevalent reason for maternal death. According to statistics, sepsis caused 11 percent of maternal fatalities worldwide.

Discussion

Physiological changes related to pregnancy may imitate the start of sepsis, which makes definitive diagnosis difficult. The definition of sepsis is gradually amended over decades. Various diagnostic tools and criteria are available.

Conclusion

Prevention, early diagnosis, and appropriate management can reduce sepsis related maternal mortalities and morbidities. To reduce unnecessary maternal mortality, future policy development in the area of evaluation and care of obstetric sepsis is essential.

Epidemiology and clinical features of maternal sepsis: A retrospective study of whole pregnancy period

Maternal sepsis results in poor outcomes such as fetal or maternal death. The incidence and mortality rates of maternal sepsis vary in different places because of differences in economic development, race and medical conditions. Identifying the clinical features and determining possible mechanisms for avoiding morbidity and preventing poor outcomes would benefit committed patients. Therefore, this was an epidemiological study at a maternity transfer center in Southeast China that aimed to identify local disease features of maternal sepsis. To investigate the incidence and risk factors associated with maternal sepsis and its progression to severe sepsis in a large population-based birth cohort. This local epidemiological study was conducted in at a tertiary care center in Guangzhou, China, from 2015 to 2019. A total of 74,969 pregnant women experiencing childbirth were included in this study; Of these, 74 patients with maternal sepsis were diagnosed according to the sepsis criterion, and 118 patients without sepsis in the same period were selected randomly as the control group to study possible reasons for postpartum sepsis. This retrospective analysis covered the entire period from the first trimester to puerperium. Clinical data were collected using the hospital's electronic medical record system. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze risk factors for maternal sepsis. The incidences of maternal sepsis, the maternal mortality, and the fetal mortality were 0.099%, 0.004%, and 0.007%, respectively. Septic shock was associated with a higher severity of illness. All poor outcomes (maternal or fetal death) occurred during pregnancy. Postpartum sepsis had the longest onset period, and was associated with premature rupture of fetal membranes and preeclampsia. Sepsis is an important cause of both maternal and fetal mortality. Herein, we describe an epidemiological study that evaluated the incidence, development, and prognosis of local maternal sepsis. Furthermore, the characteristics of maternal sepsis are likely due to unknown pathological mechanisms, and patients would benefit from identifying more effective treatments for maternal sepsis.

Internistische Notfälle bei der schwangeren Patientin

Peripartale Notfälle, die intensivmedizinisch behandelt werden müssen, stellen eine große Herausausforderung an das interdisziplinäre Behandlungsteam dar. Aufgrund physiologischer Veränderungen der Schwangeren können Symptome maskiert und eine Therapieeinleitung verzögert werden. Die peripartale Sepsis weist eine relativ hohe Inzidenz auf. Die antiinfektive Therapie richtet sich nach dem zu erwartenden Keimspektrum. Endokrinologische Notfälle sind selten, können jedoch fulminant und tödlich sein. Die Entstehung einer Ketoacidose wird durch erniedrigte Bikarbonatpuffer und Plazentahormone begünstigt. Im Rahmen einer Thyreotoxikose stehen zur Therapie Propylthiouracil und Thiamazol in Abhängigkeit vom Gestationszeitpunkt zur Verfügung. Das Sheehan-Syndrom ist eine Infarzierung des Hypophysenvorderlappens im Rahmen einer Hämorrhagie. Durch Produktionsausfall lebenswichtiger Hormone kann dieses letal enden. Ebenso akut ist die Entstehung eines Lungenödems. Dieses wird durch physiologische Veränderungen während der Schwangerschaft begünstigt. Kausal ist für die Therapie die Unterscheidung eines hyper- oder hypotensiven Lungenödems von Bedeutung.

Prognosticating Fetomaternal ICU Outcomes

Although no scoring system is as yet fully validated for predicting maternal outcomes in critically ill obstetric patients, prognostication may be done objectively using severity predicting models. General critical care scoring systems which have been studied in obstetric patients are outcome prediction models (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation [APACHE] I-IV, Simplified Acute Physiology Score [SAPS] I-III, Mortality Probability Model [MPM] I-IV) and organ dysfunction scores (Multiple Organ Dysfunction Score [MODS], Logistic Organ Dysfunction Score [LODS], Sequential Organ Failure Assessment [SOFA]). General critical care scoring systems may overpredict mortality rates in obstetric patients secondary to an altered physiology of organ systems during pregnancy. Obstetric prediction models were developed keeping in mind the physiological characteristics of obstetric population. They are Modified Early Obstetric Warning System (MEOWS), Obstetric Early Warning Score (OEWS), Maternal Early Warning Trigger (MEWT), and disease-specific obstetric scoring systems. The APACHE II model and MPM II are most often used scoring systems for predicting maternal mortality. The SOFA model is the best predictive model for sepsis in obstetrics. APACHE II and SAPS are more useful for nonobstetric population. Recent studies have also underscored the applicability of the OEWS in intensive care unit (ICU) settings with results comparable to the more elaborate APACHE II and SOFA scores. The Early Warning System helps in identifying acutely deteriorating pregnant and postpartum women in non-ICU settings who may require critical care. Fetal outcomes are largely dependent upon maternal outcomes. Prognostic systems applied to mothers may help in estimation of perinatal mortality and morbidity.

Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment: Modifications for Identifying Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in Obstetrical Patients

OBJECTIVE

Screening tools, including the Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) criteria and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) criteria, have not been validated in the pregnant population. We aimed to determine if pregnancy-specific modifications to the quick SOFA (qSOFA) can improve prediction of severe maternal morbidity in pregnant women with serious infections.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a retrospective cohort study of pregnant patients with severe infections admitted to a single institution from January 1, 2011, through December 31, 2017. The primary outcome was severe maternal morbidity, defined as a composite of adverse maternal outcomes: intensive care unit (ICU) admission for >48 hours, need for invasive monitoring (central line or arterial line), intubation, pharmacologic hemodynamic support (intravenous vasopressors or inotropes), and/or maternal death. A logistic regression was then applied and the resulting predictors were analyzed individually and in combination with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to modify qSOFA for pregnancy, that is, qSOFA-P.

RESULTS

Analysis of 104 pregnant patients with severe infections found that the standard qSOFA did not accurately predict severe maternal morbidity (ROC area under the curve [AUC] = 0.54, p = 0.49, sensitivity = 0.38, and specificity = 0.70). Pregnancy-specific modifications or "qSOFA-P" (respiratory rate [RR] ≥ 35 breaths/minute and systolic blood pressure [SBP] ≤ 85 mm Hg) significantly improved prediction of severe maternal morbidity (AUC = 0.77, p < 0.001, sensitivity = 0.79, and specificity = 0.74).

CONCLUSION

The standard qSOFA is a poor screening tool in the prediction of severe maternal morbidity in pregnant patients with infections. A pregnancy-specific screening system, qSOFA-P, improved prediction of severe maternal morbidity in pregnant women with severe infections. Further prospective and large multicenter studies are needed to validate this scoring system in pregnant women.

KEY POINTS

· Validated scoring systems for evaluating pregnant patients with sepsis are needed.. · Modifications to existing systems may improve the evaluation of pregnant patients with sepsis.. · The qSOFA-P (RR ≥ 35 breaths/minute and SBP ≤ 85 mm Hg) includes modifications to qSOFA, and improves the detection of patients who would develop severe maternal morbidity...

Sepsis in the Parturient

Sepsis is a leading cause of maternal morbidity with a high case fatality rate and leads to significant perinatal loss. Early identification and appropriate time management can significantly improve maternal and perinatal outcomes. The physiological changes of pregnancy and puerperium make pregnant women more susceptible to sepsis and also pose a challenge for early diagnosis because of overlap of clinical features and laboratory values. The validation of scoring/warning systems for sepsis in parturient needs further research. Infections during puerperium are commonly polymicrobial in nature and warrant broad-spectrum antibiotics. Maternal resuscitation in antepartum period has to be tailored to ensure fetal well-being and adequate placental perfusion. For the management of sepsis in pregnancy, the guidelines from surviving sepsis campaign (SSC) for general adult population are extrapolated with modifications related to physiological alterations in pregnancy and puerperium. Timing of delivery is based on the obstetric indications unless the source of sepsis is intrauterine.

How to cite this article

Jain V, Arora A, Jain K. Sepsis in the Parturient. Indian J Crit Care Med 2021;25(Suppl 3):S267-S272.

Postpartum Respiratory Depression

Postpartum respiratory depression is a complex, multifactorial issue that encompasses a patient's baseline preexisting conditions, certain pregnancy-specific conditions or complications, as well as the iatrogenic element of various medications given in the peripartum period. In this review, we discuss many of these factors including obesity, sleep-disordered breathing, chronic lung disease, neuromuscular disorders, opioids, preeclampsia, peripartum cardiomyopathy, postpartum hemorrhage, amniotic fluid embolism, sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and medications such as analgesics, sedatives, anesthetics, and magnesium. Current recommendations for screening, treatment, and prevention are also discussed.

Maternal Sepsis: A Review of National and International Guidelines

OBJECTIVE

 Sepsis is a life-threatening syndrome caused by the body's response to infection. The Global Maternal Sepsis Study (GLOSS) suggests sepsis plays a larger role in maternal morbidity and mortality than previously thought. We therefore sought to compare national and international guidelines for maternal sepsis to determine their consistency with each other and the Third International Consensus for Sepsis and Septic Shock (SEPSIS-3).

STUDY DESIGN

 Using Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, PubMed, Google Scholar, and organization Web sites, we identified seven guidelines on maternal sepsis in the English language-The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Society of Obstetric Medicine of Australia and New Zealand, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Royal College of Physicians of Ireland Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, and World Health Organization. Guidelines were reviewed to ascertain the commonality and variation, if any, in definitions of maternal sepsis, tools and criteria utilized for diagnosis, obstetric warning systems used, as well as evaluation and management of maternal sepsis. These variables were also compared with SEPSIS-3.

RESULTS

 All guidelines provided definitions consistent with a version of the SEPSIS, although the specific version utilized were varied. Clinical variables and tools employed for diagnosis of maternal sepsis were also varied. Evaluation and management of maternal sepsis and septic shock were similar.

CONCLUSION

 In conclusion, national and international maternal sepsis guidelines were incongruent with each other and SEPSIS-3 in diagnostic criteria and tools but similar in evaluation and management recommendations.

KEY POINTS

· Definitions for maternal sepsis and septic shock are varied.. · Maternal sepsis guidelines differ in proposed criteria and tools.. · Maternal sepsis guidelines have similar management recommendations..

Top 10 Pearls for the Recognition, Evaluation, and Management of Maternal Sepsis

Maternal sepsis is a leading cause of preventable maternal mortality that requires early recognition, expedient evaluation, and appropriate management.

Maternal sepsis is an obstetric emergency and a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Early recognition in a pregnant or postpartum patient can be a challenge as the normal physiologic changes of pregnancy may mask the signs and symptoms of sepsis. Bedside assessment tools may aid in the detection of maternal sepsis. Timely and targeted antibiotic therapy and fluid resuscitation are critical for survival in patients with suspected sepsis. Once diagnosed, a search for etiologies and early application of source control measures will further reduce harms. If the patient is in septic shock or not responding to initial treatment, multidisciplinary consultation and escalation of care is necessary. Health care professionals should be aware of the unique complications of sepsis in critically ill pregnant and postpartum patients, and measures to prevent poor outcomes in this population. Adverse pregnancy outcomes may occur in association with sepsis, and should be anticipated and prevented when possible, or managed appropriately when they occur. Using a standardized approach to the patient with suspected sepsis may reduce maternal morbidity and mortality.

[Internal medical emergencies in the pregnant patient : Peripartum sepsis, metabolic derailment, endocrinological emergencies and pulmonary edema]

Peripartale Notfälle, die intensivmedizinisch behandelt werden müssen, stellen eine große Herausausforderung an das interdisziplinäre Behandlungsteam dar. Aufgrund physiologischer Veränderungen der Schwangeren können Symptome maskiert und eine Therapieeinleitung verzögert werden. Die peripartale Sepsis weist eine relativ hohe Inzidenz auf. Die antiinfektive Therapie richtet sich nach dem zu erwartenden Keimspektrum. Endokrinologische Notfälle sind selten, können jedoch fulminant und tödlich sein. Die Entstehung einer Ketoacidose wird durch erniedrigte Bikarbonatpuffer und Plazentahormone begünstigt. Im Rahmen einer Thyreotoxikose stehen zur Therapie Propylthiouracil und Thiamazol in Abhängigkeit vom Gestationszeitpunkt zur Verfügung. Das Sheehan-Syndrom ist eine Infarzierung des Hypophysenvorderlappens im Rahmen einer Hämorrhagie. Durch Produktionsausfall lebenswichtiger Hormone kann dieses letal enden. Ebenso akut ist die Entstehung eines Lungenödems. Dieses wird durch physiologische Veränderungen während der Schwangerschaft begünstigt. Kausal ist für die Therapie die Unterscheidung eines hyper- oder hypotensiven Lungenödems von Bedeutung.

[SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women; epidemiological, clinical, biological and evolutionary profile in 16 cases: the COVID-19 experience in the Moroccan Military Hospital in Benslimane]

The first cases of infection caused by new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus were reported in China in December 2019. This disease is called COVID-19 and has been declared as a pandemic by the WHO three months after its outbreak (in March 2020). In most cases it results in non-severe infectious syndrome associated with different degrees of benign symptoms (fever, cough, myalgia, headache and potential digestive disorders). SARS-CoV-2 can cause severe lung diseased and, sometimes, it results in death. Data on its consequences during pregnancy are limited. Currently, data on SARS-CoV-2 infection are reassuring and don´t indicate a higher risk of infection or a superimposed risk of complications in pregnant women compared to the general population. A few exceptional cases of maternal mortality have been reported, but they occur, most often, in patients with other diseases, in particular pre-eclampsia. This retrospective study highlights the clinical, biological and evolutionary materno-fetal data collected in the COVID-19 Military Field Hospital of Benslimane, Morocco, over a period of 3 months, from 21^st July to 21 October 2020.

Manejo de la sepsis en el embarazo. Revisión de la literatura

La sepsis se reconoce como una enfermedad común y mortal, cuya epidemiología obliga al médico tratante a realizar un diagnóstico oportuno por el alto riesgo de complicaciones o muerte. En las gestantes hay una gran vulnerabilidad debido a los cambios físicos y hormonales que están afrontado. Es indispensable iniciar el tratamiento tan pronto se tenga el diagnóstico, para evitar que sea mortal tanto para la madre como para el feto. Es por esto que el objetivo es una revisión sobre la intervención en las pacientes con diagnóstico de sepsis en estado de embarazo al ingreso a la UCI, bajo los siguientes ejes temáticos: definición clara de sepsis en el embarazo, factores de riesgo, intervención terapéutica en UCI y consecuencias para el feto durante su intervención. Se concluye que el manejo de la sepsis en las embarazadas es muy similar a las que no lo están. Hacen falta investigaciones con evidencia científica, velando siempre por la vida ya que no solo se trata un ser humano sino de dos.

A scoping review of maternal antibiotic prophylaxis in low- and middle-income countries: Comparison to WHO recommendations for prevention and treatment of maternal peripartum infection

BACKGROUND

Sepsis is a leading cause of maternal death. Antimicrobials save lives, but inappropriate overuse increases risk of antimicrobial resistance.

OBJECTIVE

A scoping review comparing peripartum prophylactic antimicrobial use in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) with WHO recommendations for prevention and treatment of maternal peripartum infection.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Medline, Embase, Global Health, LILACS and the WHO Library databases were searched.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Publications from LMICs since 2015 describing maternal prophlyactic antibiotics for group B streptococcus (GBS), preterm-prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM), cesarean section, manual placental removal, and third/fourth-degree perineal tears.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Publications were screened, and duplicates were removed. A scoping review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. Owing to study heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was performed.

MAIN RESULTS

Of 1886 studies, 27 studies from 13 countries involving 43 774 women met the eligibility criteria. Polymerase chain reaction screening for GBS is feasible, though limited financially. In PPROM, up to 42% of GBS isolates demonstrated erythromycin resistance. Evidence around cesarean section antimicrobial prophylaxis largely supports WHO recommendations; however, prolonged or multidrug regimens were reported.

CONCLUSION

There is limited evidence to challenge current WHO recommendations to prevent peripartum infection in LMICs. However, implementation challenges exist. Given the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, research is needed to ensure that peripartum prophylactic antimicrobial choices remain effective.

Routine Screening for Sepsis in an Obstetric Population: Evaluation of an Improvement Project

INTRODUCTION

Our objectives were to calculate the timeliness of treatment following implementation of routine sepsis screening in an inpatient obstetric population using obstetric-adjusted systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria, evaluate the performance of obstetric-specific screening criteria in the identification of sepsis, and to better characterize the frequency of end-organ dysfunction associated with those who met the definition of sepsis.

METHODS

Electronic medical record data were collected from all pregnant or newly delivered women admitted for observation, admission, or postpartum readmission in the hospital maternity unit from March 1 through December 31, 2017 (n = 5075). Combinations of SIRS criteria were collected and compared with clinical indicators of end-organ dysfunction in those who met the definition of sepsis. Maternal conditions and neonatal outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

In the study period, 204 cases of sepsis were identified among 201 women, 2 of whom experienced multiple episodes of sepsis, resulting in an incidence of sepsis of 4.0 per 100 livebirths. There were 92 (45.2%) with sepsis and 112 (54.9%) with end-organ dysfunction. Two women were admitted to the intensive care unit and no women died from sepsis.

DISCUSSION

Use of a standardized, obstetric-specific sepsis screening process provided for early identification and treatment of sepsis in this population. Fourteen unique combinations of SIRS criteria were noted among those with sepsis; no combination was uniquely associated with the severity of sepsis.

CONCLUSION

Pregnant and newly delivered women benefitted from implementation of routine sepsis screening; this resulted in timely initiation of treatment.

A global perspective on management of bacterial infections in pregnancy: a systematic review of international guidelines

INTRODUCTION

Maternal sepsis is a leading cause of maternal and neonatal mortality. Despite the availability of management protocols, there is disparity in case fatality rates for pregnancy-related sepsis compared to other maternity-related complications. The main aim of this systematic review was to assess concordance between international evidence-based guidelines for the prevention and management of childbirth-related bacterial infections.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The PRISMA statement was followed during the conduct and reporting of this review. PubMed was searched electronically from 2009 to November 2019 for clinical guidelines covering the topic of childbirth-related infections and specific searches for relevant guidelines on the websites of the top five international professional bodies most commonly identified by our searches. We did not apply any language restrictions. Guidelines were included if they provided any information about the prevention or management of childbirth-related bacterial infections irrespective of whether the guideline stated a recommendation or not. Two independent reviewers undertook study selection, decisions about inclusion of selected guidelines and data extraction. Extracted information was synthesized under the following topics: Asymptomatic bacteriuria; group B streptococcal infection (GBS); preterm premature rupture of membranes (P-PROM); intrauterine infection; procedures; maternal sepsis; miscellaneous. Concordance was defined as absence of contradictory information between the different guidelines with regards to a specific topic, subtopic or recommendation. Quality of included guidelines was assessed against the AGREE II guideline reporting domains.

RESULTS

A total of 43 guidelines were selected of which 11 were excluded leaving 32 guidelines that fulfilled our inclusion criteria. None of the guidelines fulfilled all the quality assessment domains and 11 (34%) of the guidelines satisfied 1-2 of domains only. Two guidelines covered the topic of asymptomatic bacteriuria, nine for GBS, five for P-PROM and three covered each of intra-amniotic infections maternal sepsis, obstetric procedures and interventions topics. The remaining guidelines covered miscellaneous topics.

CONCLUSIONS

There was concordance between guidelines with regards to several aspects in the prophylaxis and treatment of bacteriological infections in pregnancy. Nevertheless, there were several areas of discordance, some of which reached the extent of contradictory information as in the case of antenatal screening for GBS.

[COVID-19 infection in pregnancy: about a case]

La pandémie récente de COVID-19 a entrainé une crise sanitaire mondiale sans précédent. La susceptibilité des femmes enceintes aux infections a engendré beaucoup d´interrogations quant au sujet du risque de transmission, du risque tératogène et des complications materno-fœtales. La vitesse avec laquelle l´infection a progressé, ainsi que l´ambigüité de son impact sur la grossesse en raison de l´absence de données scientifiques a sollicité les obstétriciens à adapter leur pratique en se basant sur des conduites pragmatiques. Nous avons donné de l´intérêt à ce sujet déclaré par l´OMS comme pandémie mondiale en début mars 2020 pour essayer de planifier la prise en charge obstétricale des patientes infectées par SARS-CoV-2 sur la base des données actuelles. A partir d´un cas hospitalisé dans notre service de gynécologie Mahdia et se basant sur les connaissances actuelles; ce travail a pour objectifs de décrire les différentes manifestations cliniques possibles chez la femme enceinte et d´établir les principes de la prise en charge en cas d´infection COVID-19.

Comparison of Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Sepsis in Obstetrics Score (SOS) in Women with Pregnancy-Associated Sepsis with Respect to Critical Care Admission and Mortality: A Prospective Observational Study

Objective

We aimed to determine performance of sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) and Sepsis in Obstetrics Score (SOS), in women with pregnancy-associated sepsis (PAS) with respect to critical care admission and mortality.

Methods

Obstetric patients with PAS fulfilling any 2 of the quick SOFA (qSOFA) criteria were enrolled as cases. The various parameters of SOFA and SOS were recorded at admission and compared for outcomes.

Results

Critical care was required in 32 (50.7%) patients and associated mortality was high (31.7%). For our study population, a threshold of SOFA ≥ 6 had the best combination of sensitivity (84.4%) and specificity (61.3%) for critical care admission. For SOS, a cut-off value of ≥ 6 gave best sensitivity (64%) and specificity (40%) for the same.

Conclusions

SOFA was far more predictive of patient's critical condition as well as mortality compared to SOS. SOFA was superior to SOS in determining critical care admission and mortality for PAS.

Maternal sepsis

Maternal sepsis is "a life-threatening condition defined as an organ dysfunction caused by an infection during pregnancy, delivery, puerperium, or after an abortion," with the potential to save millions of lives if a proper approximation is made. Undetected or poorly managed maternal infections can lead to sepsis, death, or disability for the mother, and an increased likelihood of early neonatal infection and other adverse outcomes. Physiological, immunologic, and mechanical changes that occur in pregnancy make pregnant women more susceptible to infections than nonpregnant women and may obscure signs and symptoms of infection and sepsis, resulting in a delay in the recognition and treatment of sepsis. Prioritization of the creation and validation of tools that allow the development of clear and standardized diagnostic criteria of maternal sepsis and septic shock, according to the changes inherent to pregnancy, correspond to highly effective strategies to reduce the impact of these conditions on maternal health worldwide. After an adequate diagnostic approach, the next goal is achieving stabilization, trying to stop the progression from sepsis to septic shock, and improving tissue perfusion to limit cell dysfunction. Management protocol implementation during the first hour of treatment will be the most important determinant for the reduction of maternal mortality associated with sepsis and septic shock.

Searching for a biochemical correlate of critical illness in obstetrics: a descriptive study of maternal lactate in patients presenting for acute care in pregnancy

Obstetric physiology may alter lactate metabolism and affect the ability to use lactate as a discriminator of critical illness in pregnancy. This prospective, cross-sectional study describes venous lactate levels in women presenting for acute care during pregnancy as well as characteristics associated with elevated lactate. Obstetric patients >20-week gestation presenting for acute evaluation were included and a venous lactate sample was drawn for each patient. Elevated lactate was defined as ≥2 mmol/L. One hundred two women were enrolled and venous lactate samples were obtained for 100 participants. Median lactate level was 1.22 (IQR 0.95-1.49) and 86% of patients had normal lactate. Six patients presented with infectious complaints, none of whom had sepsis or elevated lactate. Of the 14 patients with elevated lactate, all presented with labor complaints and 10 (71.4%) were admitted in labor. Elevated lactate level was significantly associated with labor complaints and admission in labor (p < .01). Thus, lactate may not be able to discriminate severe infection consistently in pregnancy as it is confounded by labor. Further research is necessary to clarify how lactate may be used more effectively in pregnant patients and to identify alternate strategies for sepsis screening.

Sepsis: Precision-Based Medicine for Pregnancy and the Puerperium

Sepsis contributes significantly to global morbidity and mortality, particularly in vulnerable populations. Pregnant and recently pregnant women are particularly prone to rapid progression to sepsis and septic shock, with 11% of maternal deaths worldwide being attributed to sepsis. The impact on the neonate is considerable, with 1 million neonatal deaths annually attributed to maternal infection or sepsis. Pregnancy specific physiological and immunological adaptations are likely to contribute to a greater impact of infection, but current approaches to the management of sepsis are based on those developed for the non-pregnant population. Pregnancy-specific strategies are required to optimise recognition and management of these patients. We review current knowledge of the physiology and immunology of pregnancy and propose areas of research, which may advance the development of pregnancy-specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to optimise the care of pregnant women and their babies.

SMFM Consult Series #47: Sepsis during pregnancy and the puerperium

Maternal sepsis is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality and is a preventable cause of maternal death. The purpose of this guideline is to summarize what is known about sepsis and to provide guidance for the management of sepsis in pregnancy and the postpartum period. The following are SMFM recommendations: (1) we recommend that sepsis and septic shock be considered medical emergencies and that treatment and resuscitation begin immediately (GRADE 1B); (2) we recommend that providers consider the diagnosis of sepsis in pregnant patients with otherwise unexplained end-organ damage in the presence of an infectious process, regardless of the presence of fever (GRADE 1B); (3) we recommend that empiric broad-spectrum antibiotics be administered as soon as possible, ideally within 1 hour, in any pregnant woman in whom sepsis is suspected (GRADE 1B); (4) we recommend obtaining cultures (blood, urine, respiratory, and others as indicated) and serum lactate levels in pregnant or postpartum women in whom sepsis is suspected or identified, and early source control should be completed as soon as possible (GRADE 1C); (5) we recommend early administration of 1-2 L of crystalloid solutions in sepsis complicated by hypotension or suspected organ hypoperfusion (GRADE 1C); (6) we recommend the use of norepinephrine as the first-line vasopressor during pregnancy and the postpartum period in sepsis with persistent hypotension and/or hypoperfusion despite fluid resuscitation (GRADE 1C); (7) we recommend against immediate delivery for the sole indication of sepsis and that delivery should be dictated by obstetric indications (GRADE 1B).

Maternal critical care in resource-limited settings. Narrative review

Maternal critical care reflects interdisciplinary care in any hospital area according to the severity of illness of the pregnant woman. The admission rate to intensive care units is below 1% (0.08-0.76%) of deliveries in high-income countries, and ranges from 0.13% to 4.6% in low- and middle-income countries. Mortality in these patients is high and varies from 0% to 4.9% of admissions in high-income countries, and from 2% to 43.6% in low- and middle-income countries. Obstetric haemorrhage, sepsis, preeclampsia, human immunodeficiency virus complications and tropical diseases are the main reasons for intensive care unit admission in low middle-income countries. Bedside assessment tools, such as early warning scores, may help to identify critically ill patients and those at risk of deterioration. There is a lack of uniformity in definitions, identification and treatment of critically ill pregnant patients, especially in resource-limited settings. Our aims were to (i) propose a more practical definition of maternal critical care, (ii) discuss maternal mortality in the setting of limited accessibility of critical care units, (iii) provide some accessible tools to improve identification of obstetric patients who may become critically ill, and (iv) confront challenges in providing maternal critical care in resource-limited settings. To improve maternal critical care, training programmes should embrace modern technological educational aids and incorporate new tools and technologies that assist prediction of critical illness in the pregnant patient. The goal must be improved outcomes following early interventions, early initiation of resuscitation, and early transfer to an appropriate level of care, whenever possible.

Severe maternal morbidity due to sepsis: The burden and preventability of disease in New Zealand

BACKGROUND

Sepsis is a life-threatening systemic condition that appears to be increasing in the obstetric population. Clinical detection can be difficult and may result in increased morbidity via delays in the continuum of patient care.

AIMS

To describe the burden of severe maternal morbidity (SMM) caused by sepsis in New Zealand and investigate the potential preventability.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary expert review panel was established to review cases of obstetric sepsis admitted to intensive care or high-dependency units over an 18 month span in New Zealand. Cases were then analysed for the characteristics of infection and their preventability.

RESULTS

Fifty cases met the inclusion criteria, most commonly due to uterine, respiratory or kidney infection. Fifty per cent (25) of these cases were deemed potentially preventable, predominantly due to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

A high index of suspicion, development of early recognition systems and multi-disciplinary training are recommended to decrease preventable cases of maternal sepsis.