Cytomegalovirus in pregnancy: a review of epidemiology, semiology and differential treatments

Abstract

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a very common virus that belongs to the Herpesviridae family and, together with Ebstein Barr, is the leading cause of infectious mononucleosis worldwide. CMV invades mainly the salivary glands and is excreted through body fluids such as saliva, blood, urine, semen, and breast milk, so close and direct contact with an infected person is necessary for its transmission. Furthermore, CMV can be present in transplanted organs. This virus has the capacity to remain latent in the organism for long periods. It has a variable incubation period, between 28 and 60 days, and can remain dormant in the host cell after initial infection with later reactivation capability. CMV is the most common infection transmitted from pregnant women to babies during pregnancy. One in every 3 pregnant women passes the infection to her baby. Most babies with congenital CMV have no problems, but some get sick or have long-term health problems. A baby can also be infected after birth if it comes into contact with infected body fluids. Determination of IgG indicates that the patient has had contact with the virus and has an immunological memory. Although the presence of IgM alone cannot guarantee a recent infection, an IgG avidity test is required. The affinity of the antibodies increases over time until high avidity antibodies are obtained. There is no specific treatment for Cytomegalovirus in pregnant women, only the use of antiviral drugs. An alternative therapy has also been proposed for pregnant women with the use of specific anti-CMV immunoglobulin. However, the cost of this treatment is very high and can only be performed in a hospital environment on an inpatient basis.

DOI: 10.56238/homeinternationalanais-082