Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection

DEFINITION

Cytomegalovirus infection is a viral infectious disease that can cause brain damage and death in newborns.

CAUSE

Congenital cytomegalovirus occurs when a virus infected mothers infect the fetus through the placenta (afterbirth). Maternal infection may cause no symptoms, so that mothers do not realize that they are infected with cytomegalovirus.

Newborns can also be exposed to cytomegalovirus infection during or soon after birth by passing through an infected birth canal mother, consuming breast milk of infected mothers, or getting a blood transfusion from an infected person.

SYMPTOMS

Most babies with congenital CMV do not show symptoms. Only about 10% which shows the following symptoms:

- Inflammation of the eye (retina)

- Jaundice (yellow)

- Enlarged liver and spleen

- Low birth weight

- Intracranial calcification (deposition of minerals in the brain)

- Microcephaly (small head)

- Seizures

- Skin rash (Petechiae / small spots of purple)

- Fontanel bulging

Approximately 30% of these infants die. More than 90% of infants who survived and 10% of infants who are asymptomatic in the future will undergo nerve and brain disorders, such as deafness, mental retardation and impaired vision.

Babies infected after birth may develop pneumonia, enlargement and inflammation of the liver and spleen.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and physical examination as well as the history of cytomegalovirus infection in the mother during pregnancy. To confirm the diagnosis can be done breeding for example urine or blood.

Some investigations can be done include:

- Examination of blood, for example, to see the titer of antibodies to cytomegalovirus in the mother and the baby, knowing bilirubin levels and determine if there is anemia

- CT scan or ultrasound of the head (showed intracranial calcification)

- Fundoscopy (could indicate the presence of inflammation in the eye)

- Chest X-rays (to indicate pneumonia)

TREATMENT

There is no specific treatment for cytomegalovirus infection in infants. Treatment is aimed at the specific problems that exist, such as physical therapy and the selection of a special school for children who suffer psychomotor retardation.

If needed therapy, most often given drugs anti-virus. Anti-viral drugs can slow the reproduction of the virus, but it can not destroy it.

PREVENTION

Cytomegalovirus is found almost everywhere in the environment. For that there are several ways you can do to reduce the spread of this virus, namely:

·         Frequent hand washing with soap and water for 15-20 seconds, especially after touching diapers or saliva

·         Avoid contact with tears and saliva when kissing the child. Also, avoid kissing children on the mouth, give a kiss on the forehead. This is important, especially in pregnant women.

·         Do not share food, drinks, or eating utensils with young children

·         Be careful with disposable objects, such as diapers, wipes, and other objects that may be contaminated with body fluids. Be careful when holding it, do not touch your face before washing hands properly.

REFERENCE

- K, Joel. Cytomegalovirus. Kids Health. 2012.

- K, Neil K. Congenital Cytomegalovirus. Medline Plus. 2011.

- Mayo Clinic. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection. 2011.