Chlamydia trachomatis IgG3 seropositivity is associated with gastroschisis

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection seropositivity and gastroschisis. STUDY DESIGN: In this case-control study we enrolled pregnant women either prenatally diagnosed with gastroschisis (cases, n=33) or with a normal ultrasound (controls, n=66). Both groups attended the University of Utah's Maternal Fetal Medicine Diagnostic Center for their diagnostic ultrasound or because of a community obstetrician referral. Participants completed a structured interview on potential risk factors. Anti-CT IgG1 and IgG3 were measured by a CT elementary body ELISA. RESULT: Median age at sexual debut was lower and reported sexual partner number higher in cases compared to controls. Risk factors for gastroschisis included having ≥3 sexual partners (OR=3.3, 95% CI 1.2, 9.4), change in partner from the previous pregnancy (OR=3.6, 95% CI 0.9, 13.9), and anti-CT IgG3 seropositivity (age-adjusted OR=3.9, 95% CI: 1.1, 13.2). CONCLUSION: Anti-CT IgG3 seropositivity was associated with greater than a 3-fold risk for gastroschisis.