Vertical Transmission of Type B Coxsackieviruses: A Systematic Review Emphasising Clinical Evidence and Seriousness of a Neglected Issue

Abstract

Group B Coxsackieviruses (CV-B), like other enteroviruses, are essentially transmitted from person to person through the faecal-oral route. However, vertical transmission from mother to infant, through transplacental passage or inhalation of contaminated cervical swabs during delivery, can also occur. This underestimated route of CV-B transmission has been associated with serious consequences, mainly abortion, stillbirth, congenital malformations, as well as serious morbidity and mortality in the newborns. Based on a systematic review of clinical observations, this paper explains the mechanisms of CV-B vertical transmission and its diverse consequences, with a special focus on associated diseases. Preventive measures, therapeutic strategies, and recommendations are also addressed.