Stillbirth following severe symmetric fetal growth restriction due to reactivation of Epstein–Barr virus infection in pregnancy

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection in pregnancy and consequent fetal outcomes are rarely reported. The majority of cases described strongly support the possibility of transmission of this virus in utero and during delivery, resulting in stillbirth and/or congenital defects. We present a case of EBV reactivation in pregnancy that caused a severe symmetrical fetal growth restriction (FGR) and ultimately spontaneous fetal death. A 36-year-old woman, whose infection status was undetermined, was diagnosed with severe FGR at 24 weeks' gestation. The fetal karyotype was normal. EBV DNA was detected in the amniotic fluid and maternal immunoglobulin G antibodies were positive. At 30 weeks' gestation, the fetus died spontaneously. Placental examination found evidence of deciduitis and villitis. Reactivation of EBV infection appears to be related to FGR and warrants further research to determine the optimal management strategy in pregnancy.