Evaluation of the effects of brucella infection on the fetus and newborn during pregnancy

Abstract

Background

Brucellosis is one of the most common zoonotic diseases in the world, causing high morbidity in animals and humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Brucella infection during pregnancy on the fetus and neonate.

Methods

In our study, fetal and neonatal characteristics of women with positive Brucella agglutination tests during pregnancy between January 2017 and January 2023 were evaluated retrospectively. Included were all pregnant women with a tube agglutination test>1:160 for Brucella melitensis during pregnancy. Maternal characteristics, intrauterine abortion, intrauterine growth retardation, and neonatal findings were recorded.

Results

A total of 23 patients were included in the study. The most common complaints of pregnant women were fever (69.6%), malaise (78.3%), and myalgia (47.8%). A total of 21.7% of the pregnancies ended in abortion. Ten (55.6%) babies had low birth weight. Two babies had congenital brucellosis, and one baby had brucella infection due to transmission through breast milk.

Conclusion

Brucella infections in pregnancy cause adverse effects in pregnant women, the fetus and newborn. Especially in endemic areas, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Keywords

Brucellosis - pregnancy - neonate - prematurity

Publication History

Received: 26 March 2025

Accepted after revision: 10 September 2025

Article published online:
17 November 2025

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