This case illustrates 2 main points. Firstly, fetal infection can mimic exa
ctly both the immediate and delayed signs of perinatal asphyxia. Secondly,
the placenta may hold the key to the diagnosis of sepsis which may be made
difficult in the neonate by labour ward practices such as the use of intrap
artum and immediate newborn antibiotics. We strongly support the recommenda
tion that newborn blood and fetal membrane cultures should always be obtain
ed in babies with a diagnosis of 'intrapartum asphyxia and fetal distress'
(1), To this we would add the recommendation that placental histology be pe
rformed in these circumstances.