Distribution and Characterization of Dominant Serovars of Listeria Monocytogenes Strains Isolated from Spontaneous Human Abortion in Tehran

Abstract

Background and Aims: Assessment of the extend role of dominant serotyprs of Listeria monocytogenes in spontaneous abortions, using isolation methods and PCR(Polymerase Change Reaction) analysis for the presence of dominant serotypes such as 1/2a, 4b.

Materials and Methods: A total of 258 samples comprising placental bits, vaginal swabs and blood were collected from out of 123 patients with spontaneous abortion. Listeria monocytogenes was identified and confirmed by culture, biochemical, serological tests, API system, CAMP (Christie, Atkins, Munch and Petersen), hemolysis on sheep blood agar. PI-PLC (Phosphatidyl Inositol specific Phospholipase C) assay, followed by Multiplex PCR to detection of serotypes 1/2a and 4b.

Result: Out of 258 samples, 28 isolates of Listeria monocytogenes were identified   by different methods. All of the isolates were confirmed by PCR. Our search indicated that from 123 patients, 28 of isolated (46.6%)  Listeria monocytogenes strains, 14(50%) belonged to serovar 1/2a, 10(35%) to serovar 4b and 4(14.2%) to other serovars respectively.

Conclusions: Based on our study, serovars 1/2a and 4b play a key role in human spontaneous abortion. Data analysis also showed that these serovars (1/2a, 4b) are dominant serovars as causative agents of the spontaneous abortion in pregnant women.