[Cytomegalovirus infection--a review]
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K K Hansen1, V Backer, P Skinhøj
1Infektionsmedicinsk afd, Hvidovre Hospital.
Abstract:
Once considered to be an infrequent cause of human disease, human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is now recognized as being one of the most common congenital infections leading to birth defects, and furthermore, it is a common opportunistic infection associated with serious illness and death in immunocompromised patients. CMV has been assigned to the herpes family of viruses. It is an enveloped DNA virus. About 50-60 percent of Danish blood donors have anti-CMV. This figure is dependent on age, race, socioeconomic status, sexual behaviour and geographical area. Patients exhibiting symptoms and signs of primary or reactivated CMV infection should be further evaluated with appropriate laboratory tests, as treatment of CMV disease with antiviral chemotherapy such as ganciclovir or foscarnet, has proven to be effective.
Insights
Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common congenital infection causing birth defects and a serious opportunistic infection in immunocompromised individuals. Early laboratory evaluation and antiviral chemotherapy are crucial for managing CMV disease effectively.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Context:
- Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is increasingly recognized as a significant cause of human disease.
- It is a common congenital infection linked to birth defects.
- CMV is also a major opportunistic infection in immunocompromised patients, leading to severe illness and mortality.
Purpose:
- To highlight the evolving understanding of human cytomegalovirus (CMV) as a prevalent pathogen.
- To emphasize the importance of diagnosing and managing CMV infections in both congenital and immunocompromised populations.
- To underscore the effectiveness of antiviral treatments for CMV disease.
Summary:
- CMV, an enveloped DNA virus from the herpes family, is prevalent, with 50-60% of Danish blood donors having anti-CMV antibodies.
- Prevalence varies based on demographic and behavioral factors.
- Diagnosis involves laboratory evaluation of symptomatic or reactivated infections.
Impact:
- Increased awareness of CMV's impact on congenital health and immunocompromised individuals.
- Promotes timely diagnosis and intervention for CMV infections.
- Supports the use of antiviral chemotherapy (e.g., ganciclovir, foscarnet) for effective CMV disease management.