Outcome for fetus with ascites and cytomegalovirus infection.

The prenatal and neonatal course of a fetus with cytomegalovirus infection and ascites found on ultrasonographic examination at 27 weeks' gestation is reported. The ascites resolved within 4 weeks and the neonate had evidence only of mild congenital cytomegalovirus infection at birth. The factors predictive of the long-term outcome for an infant with congenital cytomegalovirus infection are reviewed. In this case, the finding that signs of significant disease in the fetus do not necessarily correlate with signs of severe congenital infection in the neonate is reported. It is suggested that prospective data are needed to aid in prediction of the course of fetal cytomegalovirus infection.