Placental Sampling for Understanding Viral Infections — A Simplified Protocol for the COVID-19 Pandemic

• Published in: Revista Brasileira de ginecologia e obstetrícia Vol. 43; no. 5; pp. 377 - 383
• Main Authors: Nobrega, Guilherme de Moraes, Guida, José Paulo Siqueira, Japecanga, Rodolfo Rosa, Antolini-Tavares, Arthur, Mysorekar, Indira, Costa, Maria Laura
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Rua do Matoso 170, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, CEP 20270-135, Brazil Thieme Revinter Publicações Ltda 01.05.2021; Federação Brasileira das Sociedades de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia
• Subjects: COVID-19; COVID-19 - virology; Female; Humans; OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY; Original; Original Article; placenta; Placenta - virology; Pregnancy; Specimen Handling - methods; Specimen Handling - standards; systematic sampling; viral infections; Virology - methods; Virology - standards; Virus Diseases - virology; COVID-19; systematic sampling; coleta sistemática; viral infections; pregnancy; placenta; gestação; infecções virais
• ISSN: 0100-7203; 1806-9339; 1806-9339
• DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1729146

Abstract Objective  The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic viral disease, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The impact of the disease among the obstetric population remains unclear, and the study of the placenta can provide valuable information. Adequate sampling of the placental tissue can help characterize the pathways of viral infections. Methods  A protocol of placental sampling is proposed, aiming at guaranteeing representativity of the placenta and describing the adequate conservation of samples and their integrity for future analysis. The protocol is presented in its complete and simplified versions, allowing its implementation in different complexity settings. Results  Sampling with the minimum possible interval from childbirth is the key for adequate sampling and storage. This protocol has already been implemented during the Zika virus outbreak. Conclusion  A protocol for adequate sampling and storage of placental tissue is fundamental for adequate evaluation of viral infections on the placenta. During the COVID-19 pandemic, implementation of this protocol may help to elucidate critical aspects of the SARS-CoV-2 infection.