Detection of Parvovirus B19, Cytomegalovirus, and Enterovirus Infections in Cases of Intrauterine Fetal Death

In Sweden, between 6% and 20% of fetal deaths are ascribed to infectious diseases, and a substantial number of these are associated with maternal viral infections. In this prospective study, extending over 38 months, placental biopsies, fetal blood, and amniotic fluid were collected in 52 cases of intrauterine fetal death (IUFD). Biopsies from 53 normal pregnancies at term made up a control group. Tissues were examined by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique for parvovirus B19 DNA, cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA, and enterovirus RNA. Serologic studies for viral infection were done in 46 cases and, in 31, maternal stool samples were examined for enterovirus.