Cytomegalovirus endocervicitis diagnosed by cervical smear

Area of Science:

• Cytopathology
• Virology
• Obstetrics and Gynecology

Background:

• Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common herpesvirus that can cause asymptomatic infection in immunocompetent individuals.
• Cervical smears are routinely used for screening for cervical cancer and other abnormalities.
• Postpartum period can be associated with various physiological and immunological changes.

Observation:

• Cytologic evidence of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection was incidentally detected in a routine cervical smear.
• The patient was a 21-year-old, HIV-negative woman, 4 weeks after delivery.
• The observed CMV changes were specifically associated with the columnar cervical epithelium.

Findings:

• The presence of CMV cytologic changes in a cervical smear is a rare occurrence.
• The association with columnar cervical epithelium suggests a potential site of viral activity or shedding.
• This case represents an unusual manifestation of CMV in a non-immunocompromised individual.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of recognizing rare cytologic findings in routine screening tests.
• Further investigation may be warranted to understand the clinical significance and implications of CMV in cervical epithelium, particularly postpartum.
• Highlights the need for comprehensive cytologic evaluation beyond routine screening parameters.