Fatal Herpetic Hepatitis in Pregnancy
Author Information
Author(s): Stephen Chatelain, D. Edward Neumann, Samuel M. Alexander
Primary Institution: Maternal Fetal Medicine Section, Woman's Hospital, Baton Rouge and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans
Conclusion
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential because of the high mortality rate.
Supporting Evidence
- Herpetic hepatitis is extremely rare, with a maternal mortality rate of 43%.
- Six out of fourteen reported cases of herpetic hepatitis resulted in death.
- Patients treated with parenteral acyclovir had improved survival rates compared to those who did not receive antiviral therapy.
Takeaway
A pregnant woman can get a serious infection from the herpes virus that can be very dangerous. It's important to find out quickly if someone has this infection so they can get the right treatment.
Methodology
Case presentation of a pregnant patient with symptoms leading to a diagnosis of herpetic hepatitis.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
20-year-old white female, G P0, with an intrauterine pregnancy at 32 weeks gestation.
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