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Updated: Oct 13, 2026

Use of In vivo Imaging to Monitor the Progression of Experimental Mouse Cytomegalovirus Infection in Neonates
05:53

Use of In vivo Imaging to Monitor the Progression of Experimental Mouse Cytomegalovirus Infection in Neonates

Published on: July 6, 2013

Outcome of mother to infant acquired GBV-C/HGV infection

G Zuin1, B Saccani, S Di Giacomo

  • 1Fourth Paediatric Department, Università di Milano, Istituto di Scienze Biomediche Sacco, Italy.

Archives of Disease in Childhood. Fetal and Neonatal Edition
|May 18, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Most infants born to mothers with GBV-C/HGV RNA infection remained positive for the virus. Hepatocellular injury was primarily observed in infants with GBV-C/HGV, hepatitis C virus, and HIV coinfection.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Pediatrics
  • Hepatology

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and GB virus C/Hepatitis G virus (GBV-C/HGV) are related RNA viruses.
  • Vertical and perinatal transmission routes are significant for viral infections in newborns.
  • Coinfection with multiple viruses can alter disease progression and severity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the outcomes of vertical/perinatal GBV-C/HGV RNA infection in infants.
  • To assess the persistence of GBV-C/HGV RNA in infants up to 12 months of age.
  • To determine the association between GBV-C/HGV infection, coinfections, and hepatocellular injury.

Main Methods:

  • Study included twelve infants born to GBV-C/HGV RNA positive mothers.
  • Viral RNA persistence was monitored up to 12 months of age.
  • Alanine amino transferase (ALT) levels were measured to assess liver injury.

Main Results:

  • 91% of infants remained persistently GBV-C/HGV RNA positive at 12 months.
  • Four of six infants with GBV-C/HGV infection alone showed normal ALT activities.
  • Significant hepatocellular injury was evident only in infants coinfected with GBV-C/HGV, HCV, and HIV.

Conclusions:

  • Infants born to GBV-C/HGV RNA positive mothers frequently maintain viral RNA.
  • Isolated GBV-C/HGV infection appears to have a limited impact on liver enzymes in infants.
  • Hepatocellular injury in infants is strongly associated with coinfection involving GBV-C/HGV, HCV, and HIV.

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