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Predictors of antepartum maternal sepsis and effects on neonatal outcomes: a population-based cohort study

Journal of Perinatology volume 43, pages 752–757 (2023)Cite this article

Subjects

Abstract

Objective

To examine the relationship between maternal sepsis, type of infection, and short-term neonatal outcomes.

Study design

We conducted a retrospective cohort study investigating pregnancies between 2005 and 2008 in California with antepartum maternal sepsis diagnosis. Comparisons were made between sepsis cases and controls, using chi-squared or Fisher’s exact test. Multivariable logistic regression was performed, adjusting for maternal characteristics.

Results

Several maternal characteristics were associated with increased odds of maternal sepsis. Both obstetric and non-obstetric infections were associated with maternal sepsis (p < 0.001). The positive predictive value of maternal sepsis for preterm delivery was 55.03%. Neonates born to maternal sepsis patients had a higher risk of developing neonatal complications including neonatal shock.

Conclusion

Maternal sepsis was associated with neonatal complications. Efforts to reduce maternal sepsis may improve neonatal outcomes. Further studies are required for a better understanding of these associations and whether prevention or more rapid diagnosis and treatment can lower these risks.

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Fig. 1: Relationship between maternal characteristics and maternal sepsis.
Fig. 2: Relationship between type of maternal infections and maternal sepsis.
Fig. 3: Relationship between maternal sepsis and neonatal outcomes.

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Data availability

The dataset analyzed during the current study is available through the California Department of Public Health.

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Funding

Dr SLG was supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIAID K08AI141728).

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA

    Nida Ozarslan, Stephanie L. Gaw & Arianna G. Cassidy

  2. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA

    Aaron B. Caughey

Authors
  1. Nida Ozarslan
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  2. Stephanie L. Gaw
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  3. Arianna G. Cassidy
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  4. Aaron B. Caughey
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Contributions

Dr SLG and Dr ABC conceptualized and designed the study, carried out the initial analysis, critically reviewed and revised the paper. Dr NO and Dr AGC drafted the initial paper, reviewed, and revised the paper. All authors approved the final paper as submitted and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Aaron B. Caughey.

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The authors declare no competing interests.

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Ozarslan, N., Gaw, S.L., Cassidy, A.G. et al. Predictors of antepartum maternal sepsis and effects on neonatal outcomes: a population-based cohort study. J Perinatol 43, 752–757 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41372-023-01696-3

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