Significance of Placental Findings in Early-Onset Group B Streptococcal Neonatal Sepsis

Abstract

Assessment of placental pathology and its relationship to historical data, initial laboratory parameters, and outcome was undertaken in 22 cases of early-onset group B streptococcal sepsis of the neonate. Fourteen (64%) of the placentas demonstrated chorioamnionitis, six (27%) funisitis, and in nine (41%) gram stain demonstrated organisms within the membranes. Focal villous edema was observed in five (23%) cases and diffuse villous edema in four (18%). No placenta demonstrated chorangiosis. Placental inflammation was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with prematurity, prolonged rupture of membranes, and onset of symptoms at less than 3 hours of age. No placental change was significantly associated with outcome or with neutropenia, which was the only parameter assessed that appeared to have prognostic value.

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