Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis, follow-up, and outcome of congenital varicella syndrome

Abstract

Objectives: To report on a case of fetal varicella infection following the diagnosis of maternal infection at 16 weeks of gestation.

Methods: Diagnosis was based on serology testing and prenatal ultrasound, confirmed by DNA detection in amniotic fluid (Lightcycler-PCR). Serial ultrasound examinations were performed.

Results: Sonographic anomalies included borderline ventriculomegaly, intracerebral, intrahepatic and myocardial calcifications, limb deformities, articular effusions, and intrauterine growth retardation (confirmed postpartally). The newborn showed a severe encephalopathy and could not be stabilized sufficiently. The child died 23 days after birth.

Conclusion: The outcome of an affected fetus may be very serious and prenatal ultrasound is a helpful tool to recognize the severity of the infection.