An Overview of Cytomegalovirus Infection in Pregnancy

Abstract

The objective of this review was to bring to attention cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection during pregnancy, taking into consideration all relevant aspects, such as maternal diagnosis, fetal infection and prevention, prenatal diagnosis, and postnatal prognosis. A literature review was performed regarding adult and congenital infection. General information regarding this viral infection and potential related medical conditions was provided, considering the issues of maternal infection during pregnancy, transmission to the fetus, and associated congenital infection management. Prenatal diagnosis includes maternal serum testing and the confirmation of the infection in amniotic fluid or fetal blood. Additionally, prenatal diagnosis requires imaging techniques, ultrasound, and complementary magnetic resonance to assess cortical and extracortical anomalies. Imaging findings can predict both fetal involvement and the postnatal prognosis of the newborn, but they are difficult to assess, even for highly trained physicians. In regard to fetal sequelae, the early diagnosis of a potential fetal infection is crucial, and methods to decrease fetal involvement should be considered. Postnatal evaluation is also important, because many newborns may be asymptomatic and clinical anomalies can be diagnosed when sequelae are permanent.

Differential diagnosis of fever and rash cases negative for measles and rubella to complement surveillance activities

“…Furthermore, in a proportion of cases, herpesviruses may have been the (co‐)responsible agents causing rash, but only as a result of a reactivation induced by other causes, particularly other pathogens. Indeed, late primary infection with members of the family Herpesviridae seems to be unusual and reactivation can explain the peculiar HHV‐7 infection peak we found in older individuals 37,44,45 . Furthermore, several studies indicated the potential role of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in the reactivation of human herpesviruses in latently infected host cells 46,47 .…”

“…Indeed, late primary infection with members of the family Herpesviridae seems to be unusual and reactivation can explain the peculiar HHV-7 infection peak we found in older individuals. 37,44,45 Furthermore, several studies indicated the potential role of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the reactivation of human herpesviruses in latently infected host cells. 46,47 While further research is needed to fully clarify the association between coinfections and skin rash in COVID-19 patients, our observation that 60% of SARS-CoV-2positive patients were also positive to one or more herpesviruses could be explained by herpesviral reactivation.…”

Are We Able to Prevent Neonatal Readmission? A Retrospective Analysis from a Pediatrics Department in Ploiești – Romania

“…The study led by Feenstra M. et al emphasizes the importance of maternal feelings of security and confidence in their maternal role, as they are closely connected to the process of becoming a mother [10]. High risk pregnancies increase the likelihood of complications and readmission for newborns [11][12][13].…”

Knowledge and attitudes of medical students about clinical aspects of congenital cytomegalovirus infection in newborns: A nationwide cross-sectional study in Greece

“…In addition, medical students should be aware that mononucleosis symptoms during pregnancy might be indicative of CMV infection. Hence, they will be able to early identify and manage the consequences of the infection the soonest possible ( 25 ).…”