Cord Blood Sampling for Intrauterine Infection Detection

Umbilical cord blood puncture examination for pregnant women?

Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about the content of cord blood puncture testing.
I found information online stating that it can check for intrauterine infections in the fetus.
I would like to know which viral infections can be tested, as I had a fever in the early stages of my pregnancy without knowing I was pregnant, and I also had genital herpes a month before becoming pregnant.
I am really worried about transmitting it to the fetus.
Currently, my obstetrician said that the ultrasound looks normal, and I have undergone amniocentesis, but amniocentesis can only check for chromosomal abnormalities and cannot guarantee that the fetus is free of issues.
I would like to know what intrauterine infections can be tested through cord blood puncture.
Thank you, Doctor.

Youzi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/20

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Genital herpes rarely causes fetal infection, so there is no need to worry too much.
Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/11/20

More Info

Cord blood sampling, also known as cordocentesis, is a procedure performed during pregnancy to assess the health of the fetus, particularly in cases where there is a concern for intrauterine infection. This procedure involves taking a sample of blood from the umbilical cord, which can provide valuable information about the fetus's condition and potential infections.

In terms of detecting intrauterine infections, cord blood sampling can be particularly useful for identifying certain viral and bacterial infections. Some of the infections that can be detected through this method include:
1. Cytomegalovirus (CMV): This is one of the most common congenital viral infections and can lead to serious complications in newborns. Testing for CMV in cord blood can help determine if the fetus has been infected.

2. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Given your history of genital herpes, it is understandable to be concerned about the potential transmission to the fetus. Cord blood sampling can help detect the presence of HSV, although it is more commonly diagnosed through other means, such as PCR testing of lesions or amniotic fluid.

3. Toxoplasmosis: This parasitic infection can be transmitted from the mother to the fetus and can cause serious complications. Testing for antibodies in the cord blood can indicate whether the fetus has been infected.

4. Syphilis: This sexually transmitted infection can also be transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy. Testing for syphilis in the cord blood can help identify if the fetus has been affected.

5. HIV: While HIV is typically tested through maternal blood, cord blood can also be tested to determine if the virus has been transmitted to the fetus.

6. Group B Streptococcus (GBS): This bacterial infection can be present in the mother and can lead to serious complications for the newborn if transmitted during delivery. Testing can help identify if the fetus is at risk.

It's important to note that while cord blood sampling can provide valuable information, it is not a comprehensive test for all possible infections. The results can help guide further management and treatment options for both the mother and the baby.

Regarding your concerns about having had a fever during early pregnancy and a history of genital herpes, it is crucial to communicate these details with your healthcare provider. They can assess your risk factors and determine the appropriate tests to ensure the health of your fetus. Additionally, while ultrasound and amniocentesis (amniotic fluid sampling) can provide information about fetal health and genetic conditions, they may not specifically identify all infections.

In summary, cord blood sampling can be a useful tool for detecting certain intrauterine infections, including CMV, HSV, toxoplasmosis, syphilis, HIV, and GBS. If you have specific concerns about your pregnancy and potential infections, it is best to discuss them with your obstetrician or a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, who can provide personalized advice and testing options based on your medical history and current situation.

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