A review of Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Abstract

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a ubiquitous virus that has a significant impact on the health of children in Africa and globally. It can be acquired antenatally in utero (cCMV) or postnatally (pCMV) via breastmilk, genital secretions, or blood products. CMV can also be transmitted via solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplants. Clinical presentation of CMV varies based on the age and immune status, with children living with HIV exhibiting significant complications from co-infection. Most children with cCMV are asymptomatic but may develop deafness and neurodevelopmental delay later in childhood. pCMV in preterm or low birth weight babies may lead to pneumonitis, necrotizing enterocolitis, or a severe sepsis-like syndrome.

Ganciclovir and valganciclovir, its oral prodrug, are the only anti CMV drugs available in most African countries though their use is not widespread. New drugs and vaccines are being developed to improve treatment options and prevent the transmission of CMV. Strategies to manage cCMV include the use of longer durations of ganciclovir as a treatment option to prevent deafness.