Ureaplasma urealyticum in a neonatal intensive care population

The incidence of Ureaplasma colonization at birth and its effect on the development of chronic lung disease (CLD) and on mortality was studied in a neonatal intensive care population. Ureaplasma colonization was associated with a birthweight < 1000 g (odds ratio [OR] 3.45 confidence intervals [CI] 2.13-5.60) and a gestational age < 30 weeks (OR 2.54 CI 1.71–3.79). In a case-controlled study of 112 infants, significant associations with Ureaplasma colonization were maternal pyrexia in labour ( n = 38 vs 21; P = 0.015), the requirement for antibiotics in labour ( n = 39 vs 16; P = 0.0005) and vaginal delivery ( n = 78 vs 58; P = 0.009). Risk factors associated with the development of CLD were birthweight < 1000 g (OR 3.77 CI 2.53–5.62) and delivery by Caesarean section (OR 1.65 CI 1.11–2.43). Within the group delivered by Caesarean section. Ureaplasma colonization was also associated with an increased risk of CLD (OR 1.97 CI 1.08–3.62). Ureaplasma colonization of infants at birth is associated with factors suggestive of maternal chorioamnionitis as well as preterm birth and low birthweight. In infants delivered by Caesarean section, Ureaplasma colonization is associated with an increased risk of chronic lung disease.