Hepatitis E, Schistosomiasis and Echinococcosis–Prevalence in a Cohort of Pregnant Migrants in Germany and Their Influence on Fetal Growth Restriction

Background: Infections, as well as adverse birth outcomes, may be more frequent in migrant women. Schistosomiasis, echinococcosis, and hepatitis E virus (HEV) seropositivity are associated with the adverse pregnancy outcomes of fetal growth restriction and premature delivery. Methods: A cohort study of 82 pregnant women with a history of migration and corresponding delivery of newborns in Germany was conducted. Results: Overall, 9% of sera tested positive for anti-HEV IgG. None of the patients tested positive for anti-HEV IgM, schistosomiasis, or echinococcus serology. Birth weights were below the 10th percentile for gestational age in 8.5% of the neonates. No association between HEV serology and fetal growth restriction (FGR) frequency was found. Conclusions: In comparison to German baseline data, no increased risk for HEV exposure or serological signs of exposure against schistosomiasis or echinococcosis could be observed in pregnant migrants. An influence of the anti-HEV serology status on fetal growth restriction could not be found.