Neonatal listeriosis

[Magaret]

Neonatal listeriosis is acquired transplacentally or during or after delivery. Symptoms are those of sepsis. Diagnosis is by culture or polymerase chain reaction testing of mother and infant. Treatment is antibiotics, initially ampicillin plus an aminoglycoside.
(See also Listeriosis in adults and Overview of Neonatal Infections.)
In utero infection with Listeria monocytogenes can result in fetal dissemination with granuloma formation (eg, in the skin, liver, adrenal glands, lymphatic tissue, lungs, and brain). If a rash is present, it is referred to as granulomatosis infantisepticum. Aspiration or swallowing of amniotic fluid or vaginal secretions can lead to in utero or perinatal infection of the lungs, manifesting in the first several days of life with respiratory distress, shock, and a fulminant course.
Pregnant women typically acquire listeria infection from ingestion of contaminated food. Many foods can harbor and transmit L. monocytogenes, but infection usually occurs via ingestion of contaminated dairy products, raw vegetables, meats, or, particularly, refrigerated foods that require no cooking before they are eaten. Contamination is favored by the ability of L. monocytogenes to survive and grow at refrigerator temperatures.