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The Role of Cytomegalovirus in Congenital and Early Postnatal Infections in Northeastern Bulgaria
Zhivka D Stoykova1, Lilia I Ivanova2, Tatina T Todorova3
1Department of Microbiology and Virology, Medical University of Varna, Department of Clinical Virology, St. Marina University Hospital, Varna, Bulgaria
Background:
Human cytomegalovirus is a ubiquitous, large enveloped DNA β-herpesvirus that, like other herpesviruses, establishes lifelong latency following primary infection. It is the most frequent cause of congenital, neonatal and early postnatal infections with long lasting sequelae.
Aim:
The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of cytomegalovirus among a cohort of newborns and 1-3-month-old children with neurological symptoms, physical retardation, prolonged jaundice, thrombocytopenic purpura and other disabilities.
Materials And Methods:
The study was a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of serological screening data for detection of specific anti-cytomegalovirus IgM and IgG in children from Northeastern Bulgaria.
Results:
Between 2003 and 2015, average prevalences of 18.8% (95% CI: 15.4 to 22.2) for anti-CMV IgM antibodies (suggesting acute infection) and 84.7% (95% CI: 81.6 to 87.8) for anti-CMV IgG antibodies were measured in a total number of 517 samples. The prevalence rate of anti-CMV IgM in 1-3-month-old children was 4-fold higher than that in newborns [25.8% (95% CI: 21.1 to 30.5) and 6.4% (95% CI: 2.9 to 9.9, respectively]. In contrast, no significant difference was found for anti- CMV IgG positivity between newborns and 1-3-month-old infants (84% and 85%, respectively).
Conclusions:
The data obtained strongly encourage screening of pregnant women for anti-CMV IgG and IgM to avoid transmission of the infection and severe complications of congenital infection.
Insights
High rates of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection were found in infants with disabilities. Screening pregnant women for CMV is recommended to prevent congenital infection and its severe consequences.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common herpesvirus causing lifelong latency.
- Congenital CMV infection is a leading cause of neonatal disabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in newborns and young children with neurological and developmental issues.
- To assess CMV infection rates in a cohort from Northeastern Bulgaria.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of serological screening data.
- Detection of specific anti-cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgM and IgG antibodies.
Main Results:
- Overall prevalence: 18.8% for anti-CMV IgM (acute) and 84.7% for anti-CMV IgG (past infection).
- Anti-CMV IgM prevalence was 4-fold higher in 1-3-month-olds (25.8%) than newborns (6.4%).
- No significant difference in anti-CMV IgG prevalence between newborns (84%) and 1-3-month-olds (85%).
Conclusions:
- High CMV IgG prevalence suggests widespread prior exposure.
- Elevated IgM in infants indicates significant recent or active infection.
- Screening pregnant women for CMV is crucial to prevent congenital transmission and sequelae.
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