Which infection can lead to "blueberry muffin baby" syndrome?

"Blueberry muffin baby" syndrome is a classic description associated with congenital rubella. This term refers to the appearance of neonates who have congenital rubella syndrome, characterized by purplish-blue skin lesions resembling blueberries. These lesions result from extramedullary hematopoiesis due to the underlying pathology of the rubella virus, which leads to systemic effects including hematological abnormalities.

The presence of blueberry muffin lesions indicates that the infant has sustained significant changes due to the infection, often accompanied by other congenital anomalies such as cataracts, cardiac defects, and growth restrictions. The distinctive skin findings, including the blueberry muffin appearance, are specific indicators that clinicians are trained to recognize when assessing newborns who may have been exposed to rubella in utero.

Other infections, while they may present with their own symptoms and complications, do not typically result in this specific presentation. This helps to reinforce a diagnosis of congenital rubella when such findings are observed.