Intrauterine fetal loss associated with Candida glabrata chorioamnionitis: report of two cases

Abstract

Chorioamnionitis is most commonly the result of an ascending infection caused by bacteria found within the lower genital tract. Yeast infections causing chorioamnionitis are very uncommon. Candida glabrata is a yeast that is considered to be a commensal of the vagina but vaginitis and rarely upper genital tract infection have been described. We report two cases of fungal chorioamnionitis occurring in pregnancies with a history of in vitro fertilization and cervical cerclage, both resulting in fetal loss. The histological features in conjunction with the positive cultures enabled C. glabrata to be identified as the causative organism producing severe chorioamnionitis. C. glabrata was probably introduced into the cervix at the time of embryo transfer, and during stitching the cervix. To prevent unfavorable outcomes in pregnant women, we recommend that vaginal and in particular cervical swabs should be taken prior to cervical procedures and appropriate treatment should be provided.