Serology survey of chikungunya virus in high-risk pregnant women and placental tissue findings

Resumen

Evidence suggests a risk of maternal transmission of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) during the first and third trimesters, potentially leading to miscarriage or neurological consequences for the fetus. This study aimed to conduct a serological survey for CHIKV among women with high-risk pregnancies and analyze neonatal variables and placental tissue alterations. From March 2016 to April 2021, serological, histological, and molecular tests for CHIKV were performed. Blood samples were analyzed for anti-CHIKV IgG and IgM antibodies, and placental tissue was examined for CHIKV RNA and histological changes. Among pregnant patients, 1.33% (7/526) had reactive IgG, and 0.38% (2/526) had IgM/IgG-type antibodies during delivery. Although placental histology of CHIKV disease showed alterations, no viral genetic material was identified in the analyzed tissues. Therefore, further research is needed, including the use of complementary diagnostic techniques, to better understand the impact of this relatively new disease among high-risk pregnant women and newborns.