Fatal coxsackie B2 infection in one dizygous twin

Devastating coxsackie B virus infection has been reported in a number of neonates during the past several years.1-4 Although transplacental infection may occur, characteristically the viral infection is acquired during passage through the birth canal or shortly thereafter. The neonate is usually asymptomatic until 4 to 5 days of age when the onset of lethargy, poor feeding, and temperature instability are noted. Significant morbidity or mortality frequently ensues. This report describes a fatal case of neonatal coxsackie B2 infection in one dizygotic twin. CASE REPORT E. D. was the first of twins delivered to a 29-year-old gravida 3, para 2, white female after 37 weeks' gestation.