True about congenital Rubella syndrome :-
**Question:** True about congenital Rubella syndrome:
A. Causes severe mental retardation
B. Results in deafness and blindness
C. Leads to cardiovascular abnormalities
D. Is caused by infection during pregnancy
**Core Concept:** Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) is a condition resulting from infection with the Rubella virus during pregnancy, leading to various health problems in the newborn child.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Congenital Rubella Syndrome occurs when a pregnant woman contracts the Rubella virus, which crosses the placenta and infects the developing fetus. The virus can affect multiple organ systems, including the nervous, cardiovascular, and audiovisual systems. The severity of the symptoms and organ involvement depend on the stage of fetal development when the infection occurs.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. **Option A (Causes severe mental retardation):** While mental retardation can be present in children with CRS, it is not the only consequence of the infection. The syndrome encompasses a wide range of health issues.
B. **Option B (Results in deafness and blindness):** Although deafness and blindness can occur in children with CRS, they are not universal complications. Other symptoms are also present.
C. **Option C (Leads to cardiovascular abnormalities):** Cardiovascular abnormalities are a common but not exclusive feature of CRS. Other organ systems are affected as well.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact:** Rubella, also known as German Measles, is a preventable viral infection caused by the rubella virus. It is crucial for healthcare professionals and pregnant women to receive the Rubella vaccine to avoid the risk of CRS. Vaccination drives the incidence of this syndrome down significantly.
**Correct Answer:** D. Is caused by infection during pregnancy.
The correct answer, option D, highlights the importance of preventing Rubella infection in pregnant women to protect the unborn child from the risks of CRS.