Maternal septicemia caused by Streptococcus mitis: a possible link between intra-amniotic infection and periodontitis. Case report and literature review.

BACKGROUND: Intra-amniotic infection has a strong causal association with spontaneous preterm birth and preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM). The most common route of intra-amniotic infection is the ascending pathway in which microorganisms from the vagina gain access to the amniotic cavity. Distant microorganisms such as those from the oral cavity have been reported in intra-amniotic infection through hematogenous spreading.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 31-year-old gravida 1, para 0 Thai woman at 33+6  weeks' gestation presented with leakage of vaginal fluid and irregular uterine contraction. She developed fever at 4 h after admission and was later diagnosed with acute chorioamnionitis. A Cesarean section was performed to terminate pregnancy. In addition to a blood culture, the cultures of amniotic fluid, vaginal and chorioamniotic membrane swabs were positive for Streptococcus mitis with identical susceptibility profiles. After the delivery and antibiotic prescription, oral examination showed dental caries and chronic periodontitis.

CONCLUSIONS: This is the first case report demonstrating maternal septicemia and intra-amniotic infection caused by S. mitis which might be attributed to periodontitis in women presenting with preterm PROM. We highlighted the association of periodontal disease and preterm labor/PROM syndrome. Oral cavity examination should be included in the prenatal care to ensure good dental hygiene.