Transovarian transmission is seen in which infection –
**Question:** Transovarian transmission is seen in which infection -
A. Chlamydia
B. Syphilis
C. Rubella
D. Cystic Fibrosis
**Core Concept:**
Transovarian transmission refers to the process by which pathogens or genetic material (like DNA or RNA) enter the ova during their development, allowing the infection to be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. This can lead to congenital infections and potential long-term complications.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
Transovarian transmission occurs in infections involving pathogens that can penetrate the ova or the ova-producing cells (germ cells). In this case, the correct answer is **Syphilis (B)** as it is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. T. pallidum can penetrate the genital mucosa, reach the ova, and be transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Chlamydia (A) is another sexually transmitted infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. While it can cause reproductive tract infections, it does not have transovarian transmission capability.
C. Rubella (C) is a viral infection caused by the rubella virus. Although congenital rubella syndrome can occur, transovarian transmission is not a known mode of transmission for rubella.
D. Cystic Fibrosis (D) is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. It is a genetic disorder and not an infection or transovarian transmission.
**Clinical Pearl:**
Transovarian transmission is a critical concept for healthcare professionals due to its implications for maternal-fetal health. Infections like Syphilis can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the child, including congenital syphilis, a life-threatening disease. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of maternal infections are essential to prevent transovarian transmission and associated complications.