Capnocytophaga species and preterm birth: case series and review of the literature

Capnocytophaga, a genus of Gram-negative anaerobes that inhabit the oral cavity, has been reported to be an unusual cause of chorioamnionitis and neonatal infection. We report five cases of Capnocytophaga spp. infections in preterm infants (one proven infection and four probable infections) and review 14 previously reported cases. We suggest that Capnocytophaga sp. may be responsible for some occult causes of chorioamnionitis or preterm birth, and that the prevalence of this infection may be higher than previously reported.