Congenital CMV in the Neonate: A Primer

Cytomegalovirus, one of the most common congenital viruses in neonates, is represented within the TORCH acronym, which signifies its ability to be transmitted vertically to the fetus during maternal infection. Despite advances in prenatal diagnostics, CMV is still the leading cause of congenital infection in neonates, with a 0.64% prevalence. Additionally, the virus causes the majority of non-genetic hearing deficits, abnormal neurologic development, and other permanent disabilities seen in neonates. This primer describes the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of congenital infection to benefit providers who work with women during the perinatal period as well as neonates and pediatric patients.