Congenital rubella syndrome
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (December 2007) |
| Congenital rubella syndrome | |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Pediatrics  |
Congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) can occur in a developing fetus of a pregnant woman who has contracted rubella during her first trimester. If infection occurs 0–28 days before conception, there is a 43% chance the infant will be affected. If the infection occurs 0–12 weeks after conception, there is a 51% chance the infant will be affected.
If the infection occurs 13–26 weeks after conception there is a 23% chance the infant will be affected by the disease. Infants are not generally affected if rubella is contracted during the third trimester, or 26–40 weeks after conception. Problems rarely occur when rubella is contracted by the mother after 20 weeks of gestation and continues to disseminate the virus after birth.
It was discovered in 1941 by Australian Norman McAllister Gregg.
Presentation
The classic triad for congenital rubella syndrome is:
- Sensorineural deafness (58% of patients)
- Eye abnormalities—especially retinopathy, cataract and microphthalmia (43% of patients)
- Congenital heart disease—especially patent ductus arteriosus (50% of patients)
Other manifestations of CRS may include:
- Spleen, liver or bone marrow problems (some of which may disappear shortly after birth)
- Mental retardation
- Small head size (microcephaly)
- Eye defects
- Low birth weight
- Thrombocytopenic purpura (presents as a characteristic blueberry muffin rash)
- Hepatomegaly
- Micrognathia
Children who have been exposed to rubella in the womb should also be watched closely as they age for any indication of the following:
- Developmental delay
- Autism spectrum disorders[1]
- Schizophrenia[2]
- Growth retardation
- Learning disabilities
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
Prevention
Vaccination of females of childbearing age against rubella can prevent congenital rubella syndrome.