Varicella infection and toxoplasmosis in pregnancy.

Abstract

Varicella occurring in pregnancy can be dangerous for the fetus, the mother, and the newborn. The fetus may experience multiple system damage. The mother and newborn are at increased risk for varicella pneumonia with a 9% and 20% fatality rate, respectively. The recent introduction of the varicella vaccine will affect the occurrence of gestational infection. Toxoplasmosis is rarely dangerous for the pregnant woman, yet the fetus and newborn may be at risk for chorioretinitis, hydrocephalus, intracranial calcifications, and convulsions. The greatest challenge in the management of toxoplasmosis in pregnancy is diagnosis of the asymptomatic newborn before damage occurs. Strategies to prevent toxoplasmosis should be taught to every pregnant woman as part of parental care.