Escherichia coli Sepsis Following Second-trimester Amniocentesis

amniocentesis is a safe procedure with low risk for complications including infection. a case of genetic amniocentesis followed by escherichia coli sepsis is reported. bacteriological data showed positive blood cultures to escherichia coli. the mechanisms of infection are discussed: contamination from the instruments, systemic dissemination of bacteria coming from an asymptomatic intra-amniotic infection and inoculation of the placenta with a needle passing through the bowel.