Congenital cytomegalovirus disease due to probable maternal reactivation: A case report

Abstract

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a member of the herpes virus family that is widely spread in humans and characterized by its ability to infect and reactivate after a latency period. Infection occurs through contact with infected body fluids, and therefore, pregnancy is an important period for alert and control. Congenital infection is more common and more severe, and presents symptoms ranging from jaundice to neural lesions. Thus, the aim of this study is to report a case of cytomegalovirus disease due to probable maternal reactivation. The case occurred in the municipality of Goiânia, in a pregnant woman attended at a private clinic in the municipality. Although maternal serology showed immunity to CMV, the patient had a systematic increase in bilirubin and jaundice. In neonatal serology, IgG was reactive and IgM was non-reactive, and no neurosensory involvements, cranial or abdominal alterations were observed. However, PCR indicated CMV infection and the patient continued with oral drug treatment and outpatient follow-up. The diagnosis of infection by maternal reactivation was based on the rapid appearance of the first symptoms of the disease. There is a greater need for discussions on the diagnosis and treatment of CMV by maternal reactivation, and more studies on the subject are important to guide medical practice.