[The significance of rare viral infections and the etiology of fetal damage].

Viral infections of the mother during pregnancy are responsible for approximately 10% of birth defects. Infections with Rubella-, Cytomegalo-, Mumps-, Measles- and Chickenpox-Virus in early pregnancy are associated with abortion or abnormal development of the fetus. While infection with Chickenpox, Hepatitis B, Herpes simplex and Enterovirusinfection at the end of pregnancy may affect the newborn. - It is estimated that birth defects due to viral infections in the pregnancy are accounting for ca. 2500 clinically affected newborns among 100,000 deliveries. The number of children well at birth but developing late onset of disease due to intrauterin viral infections is presently difficult to estimate. - It is difficult to make an aetiological diagnosis of birth defects on the basis of clinical symptoms but laboratory methods have improved considerably during the last years and they are helpful in improving the aetiology and can be used as a guide line in taking care of the patients. - In case a woman has contact during pregnancy with one of the above mentioned virus infections the immunstatus can be determined rapidly and a diagnosis of primary or recurrent infection may be established. Women at risk for primary infections may be given hyper immun globulin, vaccinated or treated with anti-viral drugs. Interruption of pregnancy may also be considered for those who run a high risk of delivering a damaged child.