Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a type of virus that stays in your body once you have been infected. When you are first infected, it may cause symptoms similar to mononucleosis, including fever, fatigue, aches, and sore throat.
The virus may then stay dormant in your body, causing no symptoms until it becomes active again. CMV is transferred through bodily fluids only when the virus is active. In otherwise healthy adults, CMV rarely causes serious symptoms. However, in immunocompromised (impaired immune system) patients, CMV can cause serious problems such as:
- Vision loss
- Inflammation of the liver, colon, esophagus, or brain
- Pneumonia
If you have HIV, are undergoing cancer treatment or have received an organ transplant, you should seek medical attention at any sign of an infection.
Tests
Blood Tests
Physicians can test your blood or other bodily fluids for CMV. These tests may be important if you are immunocompromised. Pregnant women may also need tested for CMV.
Amniocentesis
If you are pregnant and have positive blood test for CMV, you may also need amniocentesis to ensure your child is not infected. During amniocentesis, a physician takes a sample of the amniotic fluid around the fetus. The amniotic fluid is examined for CMV.
Treatments
Antiviral Medications
In young children or immunocompromised patients, antiviral medicines can help slow and weaken the CMV virus.
Supportive Care
If you have serious symptoms, you may need supportive care such as fluids, fever reduction, or respiratory support.
Why Choose UHealth?
Advanced, specialized care to fight infections. From the latest diagnostic techniques to the newest evidence-based medicines, our infectious disease physicians offer specialized care for many infectious diseases including HIV, cytomegalovirus, fungal infections, mycobacterial infections, and more. We create personalized treatment plans based on the cause of your infection and your health to prevent and fight bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. You’ll have access to expert physicians, more treatment options, and supportive care that focuses on your needs.
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