SARS-CoV-2 placentitis: An uncommon complication of maternal COVID-19

Abstract

We present a case of third trimester pregnancy complicated by SARS-CoV-2 infection and subsequent reduced fetal movements, resulting in emergency Caesarean delivery with demonstrable placental SARS-CoV-2 placentitis. We show through illustration of this case and literature review that SARS-Co-V-2 placentitis is an uncommon but readily recognisable complication of maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection that may be a marker of potential vertical transmission and that may have the capacity to cause fetal compromise through a direct injurious effect on the placenta.

Keywords: Histiocytic intervillositis; Placental pathology; Placentitis; SARS-CoV-2; Vertical transmission.