Congenital CMV

Definition

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a viral infection that occurs when a pregnant woman passes the CMV virus to her unborn baby. This can happen during pregnancy, resulting in the baby being born with the infection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Congenital CMV is the most common congenital viral infection, affecting approximately 0.2-2% of all live births.
2. The majority of infants with congenital CMV infection (approximately 90%) are asymptomatic at birth, but can develop long-term complications later in life.
3. Symptomatic congenital CMV infection can lead to a range of health issues, including hearing loss, vision problems, developmental delays, and neurological disorders.
4. Congenital CMV infection is a leading cause of non-genetic hearing loss in children, with up to 15-20% of affected infants developing permanent hearing loss.
5. Antiviral treatment may be recommended for infants with symptomatic congenital CMV infection to help reduce the severity of symptoms and potential long-term complications.

Review Questions

• Explain how congenital CMV infection occurs and the potential impact on the developing fetus.
  • Congenital CMV infection occurs when a pregnant woman is exposed to the cytomegalovirus and passes the virus to her unborn baby. This can happen during any stage of pregnancy, as the virus can cross the placenta and infect the developing fetus. Congenital CMV infection can lead to a range of health issues in the baby, including hearing loss, vision problems, developmental delays, and neurological disorders. The severity of these complications can vary, with some infants being asymptomatic at birth, while others may have significant and potentially life-long impairments.
• Describe the epidemiology and prevalence of congenital CMV infection.
  • Congenital CMV infection is the most common congenital viral infection, affecting approximately 0.2-2% of all live births globally. The prevalence can vary depending on factors such as socioeconomic status, geographic region, and maternal immunity. While the majority of infants with congenital CMV infection are asymptomatic at birth, a significant proportion (up to 15-20%) may develop permanent hearing loss, which makes congenital CMV a leading cause of non-genetic hearing impairment in children. Understanding the epidemiology and prevalence of this condition is crucial for implementing effective screening, prevention, and treatment strategies.
• Evaluate the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for infants with congenital CMV infection.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for infants with congenital CMV infection, as they can help mitigate the potential long-term complications. Prompt identification of the infection allows for timely antiviral treatment, which can help reduce the severity of symptoms and the risk of developing permanent disabilities, such as hearing loss and neurological disorders. Additionally, early intervention, including specialized therapies and educational support, can significantly improve the developmental outcomes and quality of life for children affected by congenital CMV. Comprehensive screening programs and increased awareness among healthcare providers are essential to ensure that all infants with congenital CMV infection receive the necessary care and support to optimize their health and well-being.

Related terms

Cytomegalovirus (CMV): A type of herpes virus that can cause infections in various parts of the body, including the circulatory and lymphatic systems.

Intrauterine Infection: An infection that occurs within the uterus during pregnancy, which can be transmitted from the mother to the developing fetus.

Congenital Infection: An infection that is present at birth, typically as a result of transmission from the mother to the baby during pregnancy or delivery.