Funisitis can be diagnosed through cord examination and tests of fetal and maternal blood. Peripheral funisitis looks like small, white or yellow plaques on the outside of the umbilical cord; necrotizing funisitis looks like rings on the cut surface of the cord (9).
Funisitis can cause the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the baby to become compromised, especially if delivery doesn’t happen in a timely fashion. Birth asphyxia can result. If funisitis is very severe, delivery via emergency C-section may be necessary. The infant will also likely need antibiotic treatment.