Vertical Transmission of a Citrobacter Infection

ABSTRACT

Citrobacter species have rarely been described as etiological factors of intraam-niotic infections. Citrobacter is not a normal inhabitant of the female genital tract. Vertical transmission of Citrobacter from mother to fetus has rarely been reported. A 21-year-old primigravida presented to labor and delivery at 40 6/7 weeks' gestation complaining of ruptured membranes, painful uterine contractions, and fever. An intra-amniotic infection was diagnosed and antibiotics begun. She was subsequently delivered of a live male infant. Mother and infant had positive cultures for Citrobacter and overwhelming sepsis. Citrobacter species are rarely described as etiological factors of intraamniotic infections, and vertical transmission has rarely been reported. This pathogen should be considered in cases of chorioamnionitis or maternal sepsis as overwhelming maternal and fetal infection are possible sequelae.

Keywords

Citrobacter infection - pregnancy