What is Cytomegalovirus?

Description of the disease

Cytomegalovirus infection (CMV) is a viral disease that can cause various symptoms and complications in people with compromised immune systems. In healthy individuals, the infection usually goes unnoticed or presents with mild symptoms, but can lead to serious problems in newborns and people with weakened immunity.

Classification

• CMV infection in newborns;
• CMV infection in individuals with immune system disorders;
• Latent CMV infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms of CMV can vary depending on the age and immune status of the individual. In healthy adults, the infection may be asymptomatic or present with weakness, headache, and muscle pain. In newborns and people with weakened immunity, the infection can lead to inflammation of the lungs, liver, spleen, and other serious complications.

Causes

CMV is transmitted through contact with infected saliva, urine, blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. The risk of infection is higher in newborns from mothers infected with the CMV virus, as well as in people with compromised immune systems.

Diagnosis

CMV diagnosis includes blood tests for the presence of the virus or antibodies to it. Molecular diagnostic methods are also used in newborns to detect the virus in urine, saliva, or other biological fluids.

Treatment

CMV treatment is symptomatic. Some patients may require antiviral medication in severe cases of infection. Newborns with virus infection receive specific treatment to prevent serious complications.

Prevention

CMV prevention includes measures to prevent contact with infected biological fluids, especially during pregnancy, as well as strengthening the immune system.

Doctor

Treatment and monitoring of CMV patients is carried out by an infectious disease specialist or pediatrician.