Cytomegalovirus infection. Overview and new developments.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a ubiquitous agent that causes infection in all age-groups. Fortunately, the infection is usually asymptomatic, and thus it goes unnoticed. It can, however, have serious sequelae in affected neonates. One of the most significant new developments in our understanding of CMV is its possible role in acquired immune deficiency syndrome, a syndrome that has an extremely high mortality rate. CMV is also closely related to Epstein-Barr and herpes simplex viruses, both of which have known oncogenic potential. Drs Bhumbra and Nankervis discuss the disease potential of CMV and research being done on prevention of CMV infection.