Cytomegalovirus. A common virus causing serious disease.

BACKGROUND

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a herpes virus that causes severe illness and death in people whose immune systems are compromised, including organ and bone marrow transplant recipients, HIV infected people, those on immunosuppressive drugs and newborns infected during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

This article aims to present a clear guide to diagnosis and treatment of CMV in at risk patients in the community.

DISCUSSION

Cytomegalovirus is a common infection in the community, but diagnosis is often seen as difficult. The use of careful clinical assessment tests and a clear diagnostic algorithm can provide appropriate diagnosis in most immunocompromised patients, pregnant women and newborns with CMV. Treatment strategies and available antivirals are improving, complementing the advances made with diagnostic techniques and algorithms.