Which of the following act as a means of transmission of HIV infection in newborn –
High-Yield Explanation
Maternal-fetal / infant transmission
The probability of transmission of HIV from mother to infant/fetus ranges from 15 to 25% in industrialized countries and from 25 to 35% in developing countries.
HIV can be transmitted from mother to fetus/infant in the following ways :
a) In utero (During pregnancy)
b) During delivery (Perinatal) → Most common
c) After birth by breastfeeding → Least common.
Firstborn twin is more commonly infected than the second twin.
Cesarean section results in decreased transmission to the infant.
Vit. A deficiency increases the risk of transmission.
The major risk factor of transmission is the presence of a high maternal level of plasma viremia.