B25.8

Clinical Causes: Primary CMV infection: When a person is infected with the virus for the first time. Reactivation of latent CMV: When dormant CMV in the body reactivates, often in immunocompromised individuals. Transmission routes include: Close contact with bodily fluids such as saliva, urine, blood, breast milk, and sexual contact. Organ transplantation or blood transfusions from infected donors.

Key Symptoms: Fever and fatigue Muscle aches and weakness Swollen glands, particularly in the neck Sore throat Loss of appetite In immunocompromised individuals, symptoms may worsen and include:

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing cytomegaloviral diseases involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory testing. Blood tests such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) detect CMV DNA, while serological tests identify antibodies indicating recent or past infection. In cases of suspected CMV encephalitis, imaging studies like MRI or CT scans can reveal brain inflammation. Sometimes, a biopsy of affected tissues may be necessary to confirm the presence of CMV.

Treatment Protocols: Currently, there is no cure for CMV infection itself, and the approach depends on managing symptoms and preventing complications. In individuals with weakened immune systems, antiviral medications such as ganciclovir, valganciclovir, foscarnet, or cidofovir are often used to control viral replication. Supportive care to manage symptoms and maintaining immune health are essential components of treatment. Monitoring and follow-up are crucial for those at risk of severe disease, such as transplant recipients or people with HIV/AIDS.