Incidence, treatment and outcome of peripartum sepsis

Abstract

Our analysis shows that peripartum sepsis is associated with preterm pregnancies and cesarean sections. Treatment of peripartum sepsis with second-generation cephalosporin is usually effective, and the outcome is good.

Are local clinical guidelines useful in promoting rational use of antibiotic prophylaxis in Caesarean delivery?

“…Metronidazole has high activity against anaerobes and should therefore be administered at risk of anaerobic infection [23], whereas amikacin is not a common prophylactic drug, and was recommended only if serious infections occured. In contrast, the use of ''older'' efficient, safe and cost-effective antibiotics such as gentamicin, cefazolin, cefuroxime and ampicillin [24][25][26][27]was promoted by the guideline and increased following its implementation.…”

Occurrence of Septic Shock in a Patient Submitted to Emergency Cerclage following a Negative Amniocentesis: Report of a Case

“…Moreover, this case confirms the aggressive behavior of E. coli with regard to peripartum sepsis [9]. Microbial invasion of amniotic fluid is reported in >50% of women with painless cervical dilation of >2 cm between 14 and 24 weeks of gestation [6].…”

Puerperal streptococcal toxic shock syndrome treated with recombinant human activated protein C and intravenous immunoglobulin

“…1 Peripartum sepsis is estimated to occur in 0.09% of all deliveries and cause 8% of all maternal deaths. 2 Obstetric patients account for only 0.9% of all admissions to intensive care units in the UK, 5 of which two-thirds are related to postpartum haemorrhage and preeclampsia. The Group A streptococcus is responsible for 50% of puerperal sepsis.…”

“…The Group A streptococcus is responsible for 50% of puerperal sepsis. 2 This bacterium causes a wide range of infections ranging from impetigo to streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) and necrotising fasciitis. Necrotising fasciitis is the most severe presentation of Group A streptococcal infection, accounts for 10% of infections and has a mortality rate approaching 81%.…”

“…1 Group A streptococcus is the most common cause of puerperal sepsis, but serious infections requiring intensive care are rare. 2 However, virulent strains have re-emerged, leading to toxic shock and multiorgan failure. 3 The fulminate nature and rapid deterioration characteristic of an infection with Group A streptococcus, coupled with the rarity of these cases, represents a therapeutic and diagnostic challenge for doctors and midwives.…”