Abstract
Introduction The importance of rubella lies in the possible teratogenic effects of primary infection in pregnant women. The objective of this study was to determine the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of a series of suspected cases of congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in children born in 2005 in the Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (Madrid). Material and methods We used the classification of CRS cases of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, Atlanta). Blood samples for serological tests were obtained at birth and at the first consultation (between 15 and 30 days of life) from the newborns of mothers with rubella infection during pregnancy. Pharyngeal and urine samples were taken for polymerase chain reaction tests in children with a serological diagnosis of congenital rubella infection (CRI). Results In 2005, seven cases of seroconversion to rubella were detected in pregnant women in the Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre. Six of the women reported not having received rubella vaccination. In three of the newborns, positive IgM for rubella was demonstrated; in two children the only manifestation of CRS was unilateral hypoacusia while the third newborn diagnosed with CRI was asymptomatic. Conclusion Optimal immunization status against rubella in susceptible persons, especially fertile women, is essential to avoid repetition of outbreaks and prevent CRS cases.
Published Version
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