Eradication of intra-amniotic Streptococcus mutans in a woman with a short cervix.
BACKGROUND
Microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity (MIAC) remains an important pathogenetic factor in preterm births. Although most MIACs seem to originate in vaginal microflora, other reservoirs such as the oral microflora have been suggested.


METHODS
We report a case of successful eradication of Streptococcus mutans (a bacterium generally found in dental plaque) from the amniotic cavity, using ampicillin, gentamycin, and azythromycin in a woman who presented with threatened preterm labour and a short cervix at 25 weeks' gestation. She delivered at 34 weeks' gestation and was treated for tooth decay 12 weeks after delivery.


CONCLUSIONS
Intra-amniotic infection should be suspected in the presence of a short cervix during the second trimester. Appropriate parenteral antibiotics can eradicate intra-amniotic infection and potentially prolong pregnancy.
Morency
Anne-Maude
AM
Department of Microbiology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire-Hôpital Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montreal QC.
Rallu
Fabien
F
Department of Microbiology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire-Hôpital Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montreal QC.
Laferrière
Céline
C
Department of Microbiology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire-Hôpital Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montreal QC.
Bujold
Emmanuel
E
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire-Hôpital Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montreal QC; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculté de médecine, Centre de recherche du CHUL, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec QC.
D000328:Adult; D000653:Amniotic Fluid / Q000382:microbiology*; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002584:Cervix Uteri / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011251:Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / Q000188:drug therapy*; D047928:Premature Birth / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000517:prevention & control; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013295:Streptococcus mutans; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents