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BACKGROUND: West Nile virus is an emerging pathogen in the United States. Although most cases are subclinical, serious infection can occur in the form of fulminant meningoencephalitis. CASE: We present a case of West Nile virus meningoencephalitis complicating pregnancy. The patient presented in the second trimester with fever, nuchal rigidity, and mental status changes. The diagnosis was made by demonstrating the presence of immunoglobulin M antibody to West Nile virus in the cerebrospinal fluid. Gradual clinical improvement was noted after several days of supportive care. No obvious fetal consequences of infection were noted after birth. CONCLUSION: Obstetricians and health care providers need to be mindful of West Nile virus infection in pregnant women presenting with fever and neurological signs, particularly in endemic areas.
Jeff Chapa (2003) studied this question.