Investigating the risk of maternal-fetal transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in early pregnancy. (March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Halici-Ozturk, Filiz; Ocal, Fatma Doga; Aydin, Selvi; Tanacan, Atakan; Ayhan, Sule Göncü; Altinboga, Orhan; Dinc, Bedia; Moraloglu, Özlem Tekin; Sahin, Dilek
• Is Part Of: Placenta. Volume 106(2021)
• Page Start: 25
• Page End: 29
• Publication Date: 2021-03
• Subjects: SARS-CoV-2 -- Maternal-fetal transmission -- Early pregnancy -- rt-PCR -- Placenta; Placenta -- Periodicals; Reproduction -- Periodicals; Placenta -- Periodicals; Placenta -- Périodiques; Reproduction -- Périodiques; 612.63
• DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.02.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0143-4004

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: The possibility of vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from the mother to the fetus is one of the most crucial issues regarding the COVID-19 effects on pregnancy. In this study, we aimed to explore the risk of maternal-fetal transmission before 24 weeks of gestation, through analysis of abortion materials collected from PCR-positive women with pregnancy loss. To the best of our knowledge, apart from case reports, this study is the first prospective work on the vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in early pregnancy. Methods: The patients who had attended our clinic with the diagnosis of pregnancy loss before 24 weeks of gestation were screened for COVİD-19. Vertical transmission in PCR-positive women was assessed through the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in fetal-placental tissues by rt-PCR test. Results: 24 of 210 (%11, 4) pregnant women participating in the study had positive rt-PCR results. Placenta and curettage material samples of these PCR-positive patients were analyzed and all valid test results (21 samples) were negative for SARS CoV-2 RNA. In three cases, the rt-PCR results were invalid due to failed internal controls. Discussion: In the literature, the possibility of intrauterine vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is still controversial. The findings of the present study did not reveal any evidence of vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in early pregnancy. Highlights: Maternal-fetal transmission of COVID-19 is an important concern for pregnancy. The evidence of intrauterine vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is still unclear. COVID-19 infection can be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes.