Congenital CMV Flashcards
What is congenital CMV?
A common virus that belongs to the herpesvirus family. Majority of the population contracts it at some point in life and usually remain asymptomatic. Pregnant women who contract the virus for the first time during pregnancy pose a risk of transmission to the fetus, potentially leading to the development of congenital cytomegalovirus disease.
How is CMV transmitted?
through close contact with a person excreting the virus in their saliva, urine, or other bodily fluids. Primary infection during pregnancy can result in transmission of the virus to the foetus, potentially leading to congenital cytomegalovirus disease.
What are the signs and symptoms of congenital CMV?
Low birth weight
Jaundice
Microcephaly
Seizures
Pneumonia
Petechial rash
How does the infant with CMV appear at birth?
Some infants may show no symptoms at birth, while others may develop long-term neurological consequences such as hearing loss, visual impairment, and learning disability.
What are differentials for CMV?
Toxoplasmosis: Can also cause low birth weight, microcephaly, and jaundice, as well as eye infections and brain damage.
Rubella: Can lead to low birth weight, microcephaly, and jaundice, as well as heart defects, cataracts, and hearing loss.
Herpes simplex virus: Can cause seizures, jaundice, and pneumonia, as well as skin lesions and eye infections.
How is CMV investigated?
Antenatally, foetal abnormalities associated with CMV can be detected on ultrasound, and infection can be confirmed by amniocentesis.
typically diagnosed by testing an affected infant’s saliva, urine, or blood for the presence of the virus.
How is congenital CMV managed?
supportive care and monitoring for long-term neurological consequences. Antiviral therapy may be used in certain cases to prevent or treat severe disease.
