Congenital Rubella
This syndrome refers to a condition wherein the pregnant mother who contracted the disease during the viremic phase infects the fetus and practically all the fetal organs are involved.
If the infection occurs in the first 8 weeks of pregnancy, the infection of the fetus is more prolonged and chronic.
If the infection occurs after the fourth month of gestation, the risk of damage to the fetus is less likely.
Clinically, in congenital rubella syndrome the infant manifests the following:
* large fontanelle
* encephalitis
* microcephaly
* cataracts, glaucoma, retinopathy, microphthalmia, cloudy corne
* deafness
* unusual dermatoglyphics
* congenital heart defects: patent ductus arteriosus, myocarditis
* interstitial pneumonitis
* hepatosplenomegaly, hepatitis, jaundice
* thrombocytopenic purpura
* osteopathy
* low birth weight
* diabetes mellitus
* and psychomotor retardation
To avoid this disease , a safe and effective live attenuated vaccine is available.
Antibody response is about 95% though the duration of the immunity is not yet known. It is usually given from 1 yr old up to puberty.
Pregnant women should avoid exposure to rubella or german measles to avoid the infection and its effect to her fetus.