Fetal cytomegalovirus infection

Area of Science:

• Maternal-fetal medicine
• Infectious diseases
• Neonatology

Background:

• Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection impacts 0.7% of global births, causing significant neurological disability.
• Despite its prevalence, systematic screening and management strategies remain limited due to knowledge gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of congenital CMV infection during the antenatal period.
• To highlight recent advancements that support a proactive approach to managing prenatal CMV infections.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent epidemiological data on congenital CMV infection.
• Evaluation of diagnostic accuracy for maternal CMV infection.
• Assessment of fetal imaging and laboratory parameters for predicting fetal infection outcomes.
• Review of evidence for antiviral treatment efficacy and safety in pregnant women.

Main Results:

• Updated epidemiological data confirm the significant burden of congenital CMV.
• Diagnostic methods for maternal CMV infection are increasingly accurate.
• Predictive models combining fetal imaging and lab tests show promise for assessing fetal outcomes.
• Valaciclovir treatment appears feasible, safe, and potentially effective for mothers with infected fetuses.

Conclusions:

• Emerging evidence supports improved diagnosis and prognosis for congenital CMV.
• Antenatal treatment with valaciclovir shows potential benefits.
• A proactive prenatal management strategy for congenital CMV infection is warranted.