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[Routine cytomegalovirus screening during pregnancy: is it worthwhile?]
1Service de Gynécologie, Hôpital Antoine-Béclère, AP-HP, 157, rue de la Porte-de-Trivaux, 92141 Clamart Cedex. francois.audibert@abc.ap-hop-paris.fr
Journal De Gynecologie, Obstetrique Et Biologie De La Reproduction
|February 20, 2003
Summary
Routine antenatal screening for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is controversial. Current evidence does not support routine screening due to lack of effective prenatal treatments and potential iatrogenic risks.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neonatal Health
Context:
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a frequent congenital infection affecting approximately 1% of newborns.
- CMV infection can lead to significant neurological impairment and hearing loss in affected infants.
- Debate exists regarding the implementation of routine antenatal screening for CMV in France.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the current evidence and controversies surrounding routine antenatal screening for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection.
- To assess the benefits versus risks of implementing a CMV screening policy during pregnancy.
- To inform clinical recommendations on antenatal CMV screening.
Summary:
- While CMV is a known cause of congenital defects, most infected fetuses remain asymptomatic.
- No reliable antenatal prognostic markers or safe, effective prenatal treatments for CMV currently exist.
- Routine antenatal CMV screening may lead to parental anxiety, invasive procedures, and unnecessary pregnancy terminations.
Impact:
- Current knowledge does not support routine antenatal screening for CMV infection.
- Further research is needed to develop safe and effective prenatal CMV treatments.
- Improved diagnostic tests for antenatal CMV detection are required.