The transmission of infection from mother to the fetus through placenta is termed as
A. latrogenic
B. Teratogenic
C. Nosocomial
D. Fomites
Correct Answer: B. Teratogenic
The transmission of infection from mother to the fetus through the placenta is termed as Vertical transmission (also called Transplacental transmission).
Explanation:
- Vertical transmission refers to the passage of an infectious agent from a pregnant woman to her fetus or newborn.
- When this transfer occurs across the placenta during pregnancy, it is specifically called transplacental transmission.
- This is different from transmission during delivery or breastfeeding, which are also forms of vertical transmission but not transplacental.
Common infections transmitted transplacentally:
- Toxoplasmosis
- Rubella
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
- Herpes simplex virus
- Syphilis
- HIV
👉 These are often remembered by the acronym TORCH infections.
Correct term: Vertical (Transplacental) transmission
Other Options Details
Here are clear explanations of all the options:
A. Iatrogenic
- Meaning: Disease or injury caused by medical examination or treatment.
- Source: Doctors, nurses, drugs, surgery, or diagnostic procedures.
- Examples:
- Infection after surgery
- Drug-induced hepatitis
- Complications due to medical errors
B. Teratogenic
- Meaning: An agent that causes congenital malformations in a developing fetus.
- Acts during: Pregnancy (especially first trimester).
- Examples:
- Drugs: Thalidomide, isotretinoin
- Infections: Rubella
- Chemicals, radiation, alcohol
- Effect: Birth defects, growth retardation, developmental abnormalities
C. Nosocomial
- Meaning: Hospital-acquired infection.
- Develops: After admission to a hospital (not present at the time of admission).
- Examples:
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infection
- Ventilator-associated pneumonia
- MRSA infection
- Cause: Poor infection control, invasive procedures
D. Fomites
- Meaning: Inanimate objects that transmit infectious agents.
- Mode: Indirect transmission of infection.
- Examples:
- Towels, bed linens
- Door handles
- Medical instruments
- Common in: Hospitals, community settings
Summary Table
Term Key Meaning Iatrogenic Caused by medical treatment Teratogenic Causes fetal abnormalities Nosocomial Hospital-acquired infection Fomites Objects transmitting infection
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group