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Summary
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) mononucleosis can present with prolonged fevers and systemic issues, even in healthy individuals. Early diagnosis of CMV infection helps avoid unnecessary tests for this usually self-limiting illness.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) mononucleosis shares similarities with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infectious mononucleosis.
- Systemic complications of CMV in immunocompetent hosts are infrequently reported.
- Laboratory abnormalities in CMV mononucleosis may persist long after clinical recovery.
Observation:
- A review of 10 cases of CMV with systemic manifestations over 15 years was conducted.
- Patients experienced prolonged fevers, often exceeding three weeks.
- The diagnosis of CMV was frequently unsuspected early in the illness.
Findings:
- CMV infection in non-immunocompromised individuals can lead to significant systemic manifestations.
- Despite prolonged symptoms and, in some cases, requiring mechanical ventilation, all reviewed patients experienced self-limiting disease and survived.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of CMV is crucial.
Implications:
- Recognizing systemic CMV manifestations can prevent extensive diagnostic workups for prolonged fevers.
- Timely diagnosis of CMV infection can guide appropriate patient management and avoid unnecessary interventions.
- This study highlights the importance of considering CMV in the differential diagnosis of prolonged febrile illnesses.