A baby born to a mother with primary rubella at 8 weeks of gestation is examined at birth. Which combination of findings is MOST characteristic of congenital rubella syndrome?

• A Cataracts, PDA/pulmonary artery stenosis, sensorineural deafness ✓
• B Chorioretinitis, periventricular calcifications, microcephaly
• C Hydrops fetalis, hepatosplenomegaly, jaundice
• D Blueberry muffin rash, hydrocephalus, periventricular calcifications

Explanation

The classic triad of congenital rubella syndrome (Gregg's triad) is cataracts, congenital heart disease (PDA and pulmonary artery stenosis being most characteristic), and sensorineural deafness — especially when maternal infection occurs in the first trimester. Chorioretinitis and periventricular calcifications are characteristic of congenital toxoplasmosis. Hydrops is seen with CMV or parvovirus B19. Although rubella can produce a 'blueberry muffin' rash (dermal erythropoiesis), this is non-specific; the classic triad is the answer.

Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.