Congenital rubella syndrome: causes, consequences and prevention

  • Congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) affects the development of the baby in the womb and can cause heart, vision and hearing problems.
  • Rubella during pregnancy can lead to serious birth defects or even pregnancy loss.
  • There is no specific treatment, but prevention through vaccination is key to avoiding this disease.
  • Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management are essential to improve the quality of life of the affected child.

Baby with rubella

El congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) is a condition that can have serious consequences for a child's development. This disease is caused by the transmission of the rubella virus from mother to baby during pregnancy, especially if the infection occurs in the first months of gestation. During this period, the organs The main cells of the fetus are still forming, which means that the virus can cause serious abnormalities. Below, we will explore in detail how this syndrome affects the baby, what consequences it can have and how to prevent it.

What is congenital rubella syndrome?

SRC is the result of a infection by the rubella virus contracted during pregnancy, which crosses the placenta and affects the fetus. This virus can cause a wide variety of problems health problems including neurological, cardiac, ophthalmic and auditory abnormalities. It can also lead to spontaneous abortions or fetal death in the most severe cases.

Rubella

Main consequences of congenital rubella syndrome

SRC can cause a number of congenital defects which can be classified according to their severity:

  • Visual problems: These include cataracts, microphthalmia (small eyes) and glaucoma. These conditions can lead to partial or complete loss of vision.
  • Hearing problems: Sensorineural deafness is one of the most common defects associated with CRS.
  • Heart defects: Pulmonary artery stenosis and patent ductus arteriosus frequently occur.
  • Developmental delay: Affected babies may have microcephaly, motor delay, and insufficient brain development.
  • Other problems: They include liver defects, hepatosplenomegaly, purpura, and anemia.

Although some defects are treatable with proper medical care, Others can cause permanent disabilities that will affect the child's quality of life.

Diagnosis and detection

The diagnosis of SRC can be made either in the prenatal period as postnatal care through various methods:

  • During pregnancy: Ultrasound examinations can detect abnormalities associated with CRS, although they are not always conclusive. Molecular analyses of amniotic fluid can help confirm infection.
  • After birth: Detection of rubella virus-specific IgM antibodies in newborns is key to confirming the diagnosis.
  • Clinical triad: Cataracts, heart defects and deafness are the most common signs associated with CRS.

when the baby is born deaf causes diagnosis and treatment

Prevention of congenital rubella syndrome

Prevention is the best strategy to avoid SRC. vaccination Rubella vaccination is essential to protect women of childbearing age. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella) is the most effective measure to prevent infection.

In addition, pregnant women who are not sure whether they have been vaccinated or have had rubella are advised to have a blood test to assess their immunity to the disease. If they are not immune, they should avoid contact with infected people During pregnancy.


Treatment of congenital rubella syndrome

There is no specific treatment for CRS. Medical care focuses on managing the symptoms. symptom and improve the quality of life of the affected child. This may include:

  • Hearing aids and cochlear implants: To treat hearing loss.
  • Eye surgery: To correct cataracts and other visual defects.
  • Heart surgery: To treat congenital heart defects.
  • Developmental therapies: They include physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.

A multidisciplinary team of specialists is essential to address the medical needs and child development.

Congenital rubella syndrome is a serious but preventable disease. Vaccination and adequate prenatal care are essential to reduce the risks. With proper medical care, some affected children can improve their quality of life, although prevention remains the best path.


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      Ruben said

    I think that the photo does not belong to rubella, but to a megaloerythema or infectious erythema that occurs with the slap erythema that can be seen in the image.

      AV said

    IN EFFECT THAT IS NOT RUBEOLA CAUSED BY TOGAVIRUS ... IT IS INFECTIOUS ERYTHEMA CAUSED BY PARVOVIRUS B-19 ...