Listeriosis in mainland China: A systematic review

Objective: The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review to better understand the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of listeriosis patients in mainland China.

Methods: The six most widely used Chinese and English language databases were searched. The records of patients with listeriosis in mainland China reported during the years 2011-2017 were extracted. The clinical data of patients and information on clinical isolates of Listeria were collected and analyzed.

Results: In total, 136 records were identified, reporting 562 patients with listeriosis. The number of patients was much higher than that reported in the previous decade. The 227 non-perinatal listeriosis patients included had a mortality rate of 23.78%. Of the 231 perinatal listeriosis patients, 32.68% resulted in abortion and/or newborn death. All listeriosis cases were reported as being sporadic. The listeriosis was traced to infection via a meat product in only three patients, while 33.12% were healthcare-associated infections.

Conclusions: The number of patients with listeriosis in mainland China may have been underestimated previously. Perinatal cases in mainland China account for a much higher proportion than is usually described. Considering the high number of listeriosis patients in China, a comprehensive monitoring system for Listeria is urgently needed.