What is Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection?

Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a medical condition in which a CMV viral infection is transmitted from a mother to her fetus during pregnancy [1]. CMV is a very common virus belonging to the family of viruses that cause chickenpox, and anyone can contract it at any age [1] [3]. Once the virus enters the human body, it remains there for life and may reactivate at any time, even after initial symptoms have disappeared [1] [3].

How is the infection transmitted from mother to fetus?

Congenital infection occurs when the mother is exposed to the virus during her pregnancy, whether it is a primary infection or the reactivation of a virus latent in the body. The virus spreads through bodily fluids, including saliva, urine, tears, and breast milk [1]. Handling young children, who often carry the virus in their bodily fluids for long periods, is one of the most common ways for pregnant women to be exposed [1]. If the virus crosses the placenta during pregnancy, it can cause a congenital infection in the fetus.

Risks and complications for infants

It is estimated that about 1 in every 200 children is born with a congenital CMV infection [1]. Although many infected children show no symptoms or health problems, about 1 in 5 infected children may suffer from congenital disabilities or long-term health effects [1] [3]. Potential problems include:

• Hearing loss: This is the most common issue, which may appear at birth or develop later during childhood [1].
• Growth and neurodevelopmental problems: Including microcephaly, calcification, and delayed growth [1].
• Vital organ disorders: Such as enlargement of the liver and spleen (hepatosplenomegaly) and lung problems [1].
• Vision problems: Such as retinitis [1].

Diagnosis and medical intervention

Early diagnosis is crucial. For newborns suspected of having the infection, saliva or urine tests must be performed within the first 2 to 3 weeks of birth to confirm the infection [1]. Blood samples are not preferred for diagnosing newborns [1].

For infants who exhibit symptoms of congenital infection, physicians may prescribe antiviral medications such as Valganciclovir. This treatment aims to improve developmental and hearing outcomes; however, it must be used under careful medical supervision due to the possibility of serious side effects [1]. Infected children require ongoing medical follow-up, including periodic hearing and vision screenings and support services to enhance communication skills [1].

For more details on how to reduce the risks associated with this condition, you can read our article on Cytomegalovirus (CMV): Risks for Pregnant Women and Infants and Prevention (Arabic).

Medical references

• About Cytomegalovirus
• Cytomegalovirus Infections