Listeriosis revisited: the role of the obstetrician

The clinical course and outcome is described of three pregnancies complicated by listeriosis encountered during a 6-month period. All three ended in preterm labour characterized by the passage of meconium by the fetus. Two babies died in the early neonatal period and the third survived with neurological handicap. Although the diagnosis of listeriosis was made only after delivery, all the mothers had a pyrexial illness before delivery. A high index of suspicion is needed for the early detection and prompt treatment of this life-threatening perinatal infection. Effective advice concerning prevention of listeriosis by avoidance of high-risk foods must be given to women during pregnancy.