Perinatal Listeriosis

Listeriosis can have a devastating effect on the outcome of pregnancy. Three recent cases seen at the University of Toronto Regional Perinatal Complex are presented and are meant to serve as a reminder to the clinician to maintain a high index of suspicion for this infection. The clinical manifestations in fetal, maternal, and neonatal àsease are reviewed in this paper. The epidemiology of listeriosis in Canada is described, and recommendations for prevention and treatment are provided.