Human Cytomegalovirus Infection: Overview, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Human Cytomegalovirus Infection

Introduction

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a common virus that belongs to the herpesvirus family. It is estimated that up to 90% of the population worldwide has been infected with HCMV by the age of 40. The virus is typically spread through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as saliva, urine, or blood. Once infected, the virus can remain dormant in the body for years or even decades. In some cases, HCMV can reactivate and cause disease, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of HCMV Infection

Most people with HCMV infection do not experience any symptoms. However, in some cases, the virus can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Liver damage
• Pneumonitis
• Encephalitis

In severe cases, HCMV infection can be fatal.

Risk Factors for HCMV Infection

Anyone can become infected with HCMV, but certain people are at higher risk, including:

• Infants and young children
• Pregnant women
• People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, transplant recipients, and cancer patients
• People who receive blood transfusions or organ transplants
• Healthcare workers who come into contact with infected bodily fluids

Diagnosis of HCMV Infection

HCMV infection can be diagnosed with a blood test that detects antibodies to the virus. A positive blood test indicates that you have been infected with HCMV at some point in your life. However, it does not necessarily mean that you are currently experiencing symptoms.

If you are pregnant and have a positive blood test for HCMV, your doctor may recommend additional testing to determine if the virus is active. This may involve a urine test or a test of the amniotic fluid.

Treatment for HCMV Infection

There is no cure for HCMV infection. However, there are medications that can help to suppress the virus and reduce the risk of developing symptoms. These medications include:

• Ganciclovir
• Valganciclovir
• Foscarnet

Treatment for HCMV infection is typically recommended for people with weakened immune systems or for people who are experiencing severe symptoms.

Prevention of HCMV Infection

There is no vaccine to prevent HCMV infection. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of infection, including:

• Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoiding contact with saliva, urine, and blood from infected people
• Using condoms during sexual intercourse
• Not sharing eating utensils or drinking glasses with infected people
• Pregnant women should avoid contact with young children, particularly those who are in daycare

Complications of HCMV Infection

In most cases, HCMV infection is not a serious problem. However, the virus can cause serious complications in people with weakened immune systems. These complications can include:

• Retinitis, which is an inflammation of the retina that can lead to blindness
• Encephalitis, which is an inflammation of the brain that can lead to seizures, coma, and death
• Pneumonitis, which is an inflammation of the lungs that can lead to respiratory failure
• Liver damage
• Kidney failure
• Bone marrow failure

HCMV Infection in Pregnancy

HCMV infection is a common cause of birth defects. The virus can cross the placenta and infect the fetus. In some cases, this can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth defects. Birth defects that can be caused by HCMV infection include:

• Microcephaly, which is a condition in which the baby’s head is abnormally small
• Mental retardation
• Deafness
• Blindness
• Cerebral palsy

If you are pregnant and have a positive blood test for HCMV, your doctor may recommend additional testing to determine if the virus is active. If the virus is active, your doctor may recommend treatment to reduce the risk of birth defects.

Conclusion

HCMV infection is a common virus that can cause a variety of symptoms. In most cases, the virus is not a serious problem. However, the virus can cause serious complications in people with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women should be aware of the risks of HCMV infection and take steps to prevent infection. If you are pregnant and have a positive blood test for HCMV, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of treatment.