[Cytomegalovirus disease in immunocompromised patients]

Human Cytomegalovirus are a ubiquitous herpesvirus establishing virus-infections which are usually asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals. In patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and immunocompromised hosts, the virus causes primary, latent or chronic persistent infection. Primary CMV infection is very severe in immunocompromised patients as well as among healthy population. Among patients with AIDS Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is usually isolated from patients specimen in association with other pathogens (Pneumocystis carinii, Candida albicans). The prevalence of serious CMV (chorioretinitis, gastrointestinal disease, interstitial pneumonia and central nervous system disease), in AIDS population are respectable.