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CMV (Cytomegalovirus) in Pregnancy

CMV is the most common viral cause of congenital hearing loss and neurodevelopmental sequelae in developed countries.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is CMV (Cytomegalovirus) in Pregnancy?

Cytomegalovirus is a DNA virus from the herpesvirus family. It is transmitted by saliva, urine, breast milk, blood products, and sexually. The risk of transmission is significantly increased in childcare workers and pregnant women with young children.

While the risk of transmission to the fetus in primary infection during pregnancy is 30-40%, in reactivation it is 1-2%. The infection passing to the fetus is called 'congenital CMV'; even babies asymptomatic at birth are known to develop sensorineural hearing loss and neurodevelopmental delay in the long term.

Findings of symptomatic congenital CMV include intrauterine growth restriction, microcephaly, hepatosplenomegaly, thrombocytopenia, jaundice, and periventricular calcifications. Diagnosis is made by amniocentesis PCR in the fetus and by urine or saliva PCR within the first 3 weeks in newborns.

Symptoms

Flu-like illness or asymptomatic course in the mother
Intrauterine growth restriction on ultrasonography
Fetal microcephaly and ventriculomegaly
Periventricular calcifications
Hepatomegaly and hyperechogenic bowel
Hydrops and placental thickening
Hearing loss and petechiae in the newborn

Risk Factors

Frequent contact with young children (mother, childcare worker, teacher)
Seronegative pregnant women
Inadequate hygiene measures
Having a child attending daycare
Low socioeconomic level
Multiple sexual partners

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • In routine consultation for pregnant women with young children
  • When microcephaly or IUGR is detected on ultrasonography
  • When periventricular calcification is observed
  • When fever and mononucleosis-like picture develop in the mother
  • When there is failure in newborn hearing screening after birth

Treatment Methods

01
Serologic evaluation with CMV IgM/IgG and avidity test
02
Amniocentesis CMV PCR (after 20th gestational week)
03
Fetal follow-up: MRI and serial ultrasonography
04
The role of hyperimmune globulin and valganciclovir in selected cases
05
Newborn valganciclovir treatment (symptomatic congenital CMV)
06
Hygiene measures: Hand washing, avoiding contact with child saliva and urine

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.