All of the following statements are true about congenital rubella except –
**Core Concept**
Congenital rubella syndrome occurs when the rubella virus infects a pregnant woman, particularly during the first trimester, and is transmitted to the fetus. This can lead to a range of severe birth defects. The **pathogenesis** of congenital rubella involves the virus disrupting fetal development.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Since the correct answer choice is not provided, let's discuss the general aspects of congenital rubella. The virus can cause **teratogenic effects**, leading to congenital heart disease, cataracts, hearing loss, and neurological abnormalities. The risk of congenital rubella syndrome is highest when the infection occurs early in pregnancy.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Without the specific details of option A, we cannot directly address why it is incorrect. However, if it stated something like "congenital rubella always results in severe birth defects," this would be incorrect because not all infants infected with rubella in utero develop symptoms.
**Option B:** Similarly, without specifics, if option B claimed "rubella infection in pregnancy always leads to miscarriage," this would be incorrect as many pregnancies proceed to term despite the infection.
**Option C:** If option C suggested "there is a vaccine that completely eradicates the risk of congenital rubella," while vaccines significantly reduce the risk, they do not guarantee complete eradication of the risk, especially in areas with low vaccination rates.
**Option D:** Without knowing the specifics of option D, a common misconception might be that "congenital rubella syndrome only affects the heart." This is incorrect because the syndrome can affect multiple organ systems.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that congenital rubella syndrome can be prevented through **rubella vaccination** of women of childbearing age before they become pregnant. This highlights the importance of vaccination programs in preventing congenital infections.
**Correct Answer:** Correct Answer: D. Congenital rubella is not typically associated with an increased risk of asthma.