Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis antibodies in cord blood

Samples of cord blood from 120 neonates were assayed for antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis . In 52% the titers were 1 : 8 or higher. A comparison of seronegative with seropositive newborn infants did not reveal any differences in birth weight, Apgar score, or the prevalence of prematurity or postmaturity. As part of a seroepidemiologic survey, the authors assayed 120 samples of cord blood for C. trachomatis antibodies. Seropositive and seronegative neonates were compared according to variables that are commonly assessed at birth. The comparison was made because of observations that suggested increased fetal death in association with chlamydial infection in pregnancy. This report describes the findings.