Cytomegalovirus Flashcards
How common is cytomegalovirus?
Very common. Nearly everyone is infected with it
How is cytomegalovirus spread?
bodily fluids including breast milk
How long does cytomegalovirus last in the human body?
Lifetime but remains dormant for most people
CMV is more harmful to which populations and why?
Immunocompromised- cause infections in organs, retinitis/uvelitis, CMV diarrhea (GI tract ulceration), pneumonia, encephalitis, hepatitis, seizures and coma sometimes death
Pregnant-can pass onto infants
What two ways can a mother pass on CMV to her child?
Congenitally or perinatal via breast milk
What sx do babies show when theyve been infected with CMV
Jaundice, rash, low birth weight, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, hepatic dysfunction and seizures
Can healthy people become ill with CMV?
Yes
Can CMV be cured?
Not in healthy people. Prevention is key
Who gets treatment for CMV and what is it?
Immunocompromised, antivirals
