Objective : The aim of this study was to assess the outcome of pregnancies complicated by brucella infection.
Design : Prospective study
Setting : EL-Hasan National Hospilal, El-Rawad Clinic, TAIF, SAUDI ARABIA (where the practical part of the study
was accomplished), and Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, Mansoura University Hospital (where the theoretical
part of the study was completed).
Methods : This study was carried out from August 2004 lo December 2005. Tube method for detection of antibody
litre for brucellosis was done lo 450 pregnant females (415 have no symptoms or signs of brucellosis and 35 have
symptoms and signs for the disease).The antibody litre was positive in 55 Pregnant females (group I) and negative in
395 pregnant females (group 2). Both groups were followed up during pregnancy and neonatal period lo determine any
type of reproduclivc failure.
Results: The incidence of brucellosis was 12 .2 % in all tested pregnant females. The incidence of abortion in group I
was 27.27%, IUFD was 12. 72% and preterm labour was 10.90%. There was a statistically significant difference as
regards abortion and IUFD in both tested groups. There was a statistically significant difference as regards abortion in
patients having a litre more than 1/160 compared lo those who have a lower litre.
Conclusion: The frequency of fetal loss among patients with brucellosis is very high. Il is advisable to have a high
degree of alertness for brucellosis in endemic areas.