The spectrum of human illness caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV) is diverse and mostly dependent on the host. CMV infections in immunocompromised patients cause substantial morbidity and mortality, especially among transplant recipients and those infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Infection in the immunocompetent host is generally asymptomatic or may present as a mononucleosis syndrome. However, occasionally, primary CMV infection can lead to severe organ-specific complications with significant morbidity and mortality. Infection of pregnant women, even if asymptomatic, is occasionally associated with the syndrome of congenital CMV in newborns.
Like other members of the Herpesvirus family, CMV establishes latent infection after the resolution of acute (or primary) infection. Productive infection leads to the synthesis of immediate-early, early, and late viral proteins. Viral deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) has been detected in monocytes, dendritic cells, megakaryocytes, and myeloid progenitor cells in the bone marrow.
Secondary symptomatic disease may present later in the life of the host, reflecting one of two possibilities: reactivation of latent CMV or reinfection with a novel strain. Reactivation of CMV may occur at any time during a patient’s life, although the risk is higher in the setting of systemic immunosuppression, either iatrogenic or secondary to underlying medical conditions, such as the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Transmission can occur via multiple routes including sexual transmission, close contact, as in daycare centers, or blood and tissue exposure, or perinatal transmission.
Microbiology - Virology
DCMV
If sample received is EDTA blood, register QCMV
Testing is batched daily Monday-Friday at approximately 9.30am, with results available from mid-afternoon.
CMV - PCR
CMV - Retinitis
CMV Urine
Congenital CMV - Antenatal
Congenital CMV - Postnatal
PCR - CMV
PCR - Cytomegalovirus
Systemic CMV
3 days
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