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Am J Perinatol 2022; 39(12): 1292-1298
DOI: 10.1055/a-1704-1929
Short Communication

Maternal COVID-19 Infection and Possible Associated Adverse Neurological Fetal Outcomes, Two Case Reports

Charlotte Archuleta
1   College of Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona
2   Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona
,
Christine Wade
2   Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona
3   Mednax/Arizona Neonatology, Phoenix, Arizona
,
Becky Micetic
2   Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona
3   Mednax/Arizona Neonatology, Phoenix, Arizona
,
Ashley Tian
2   Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona
4   Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Banner Children's Specialists Neurology and Neurosurgery Clinic, Mesa, Arizona
,
Kartik Mody
1   College of Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona
2   Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona
3   Mednax/Arizona Neonatology, Phoenix, Arizona
5   Department of Pediatrics, Creighton University School of Medicine, Phoenix Regional Campus, Phoenix, Arizona
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Abstract

Introduction The long-term effects of prenatal coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection on the fetal brain are mostly unknown at this time; however, there is increasing evidence being published.

Case Report Two cases of severe ventriculomegaly, neurological dysfunction, and seizures were found in neonates with prenatal exposure to COVID-19 infection during the first and third trimesters of pregnancy.

Conclusion Inflammation during the prenatal and neonatal periods may be associated with neurological disorders or injury. Despite the presumed lack of vertical transmission, post-COVID-19 syndrome and its associated inflammation may have an impact on the unborn fetus. Hyper-vigilance and dissemination of adverse findings are of significant importance as we navigate through this evolving pandemic and its effects.

Key Points

  • Prenatal exposure to COVID-19 may affect the fetal brain.

  • There is a possibility of neonatal neurological sequelae from maternal COVID-19.

  • Does maternal COVID-19 infection cause infantile seizures?

Keywords

pregnancy - COVID-19 - fetus - neonate - neurological dysfunction - seizures - inflammation - brain


Publication History

Received: 09 November 2021

Accepted: 12 November 2021

Accepted Manuscript online:
23 November 2021

Article published online:
11 January 2022

© 2022. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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