Cytomegalovirus infections

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection is a common viral infection that affects people of all ages. CMV is a type of herpesvirus, which also includes the viruses that cause herpes simplex, varicella-zoster (chickenpox and shingles), and Epstein-Barr infections. CMV can cause disease in newborns, individuals with weakened immune systems, and occasionally, healthy individuals.

Transmission

CMV is spread through close contact with body fluids, such as saliva, blood, urine, semen, and breast milk. Transmission can occur through sexual contact, breastfeeding, organ transplants, blood transfusions, and from mother to child during pregnancy. The virus can also spread through contact with surfaces or objects contaminated with CMV-infected fluids.

Symptoms

Most people infected with CMV are asymptomatic, meaning they exhibit no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Swollen glands
• Muscle aches

In individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or those receiving chemotherapy, CMV can cause more serious disease, including retinitis, colitis, encephalitis, and pneumonia.

Diagnosis

CMV infection can be diagnosed through laboratory tests that detect the virus or antibodies to the virus in blood, urine, saliva, or other body fluids. These tests include:

• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing
• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
• Viral culture

Treatment

Treatment for CMV infection depends on the severity of the infection and the individual's overall health. In healthy individuals, treatment may not be necessary. For those with severe infection or weakened immune systems, antiviral medications such as ganciclovir, valganciclovir, foscarnet, and cidofovir may be used.

Prevention

Preventive measures for CMV infection include practicing good hygiene, such as handwashing, especially after changing diapers or coming into contact with body fluids. For individuals at high risk, such as organ transplant recipients, antiviral medication may be prescribed as a preventive measure.

Complications

CMV infection can lead to serious complications, especially in newborns and individuals with weakened immune systems. Complications may include:

• Hearing loss
• Vision impairment
• Developmental delays
• Seizures
• Pneumonia
• Hepatitis

Congenital CMV Infection

Congenital CMV infection occurs when a pregnant woman passes the virus to her baby during pregnancy. It is a leading cause of hearing loss and developmental disabilities in children. Pregnant women can reduce their risk of CMV infection by practicing good hygiene and avoiding contact with saliva or urine from young children.

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