Zika Virus and Pregnancy: A Review of the Literature and Clinical Considerations

Caroline Marrs, Gayle Olson, George Saade, Gary Hankins, Tony Wen, Janak Patel, Scott Weaver

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

60 Scopus citations

Abstract

The latest Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak has reached epidemic proportions as it spreads throughout South and Central America. In November 2015, the Brazilian Ministry of Health reported a 20-fold increase in the number of cases of neonatal microcephaly, which corresponds geographically and temporally to the ZIKV outbreak. Case reports have provided some evidence of a causal link between maternal ZIKV infection, fetal microcephaly, and intracranial calcifications. The sparse data regarding ZIKV in pregnancy come solely from case reports and personal communications, and recommendations for management of ZIKV exposure during pregnancy are rapidly evolving. Our objective is to review and synthesize the current literature regarding ZIKV as it pertains to pregnancy and provide some assistance to clinicians who may have to manage a pregnant patient with potential exposure to ZIKV. We will also explore certain aspects of related viruses in pregnancy in hopes to shed light on this little-known topic.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)625-639
Number of pages15
JournalAmerican Journal of Perinatology
Volume33
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 1 2016

Keywords

  • Zika virus
  • fetus
  • microcephaly
  • pregnancy
  • transmission

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Zika Virus and Pregnancy: A Review of the Literature and Clinical Considerations'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this