Acute cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection

Definition

Acute cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a condition caused by a member of the herpesvirus family.

See also: Mononucleosis

Alternative Names

CMV mononucleosis; Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Mononucleosis can be caused by several different viruses and a few types of bacteria. Unlike the more common form of mononucleosis, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), acute CMV infection is caused by cytomegalovirus.

In most people with a normal immune system, CMV infection does not cause any symptoms. But some people with this infection develop a "mononucleosis syndrome."

The infection is spread by:

• Blood transfusions
• Respiratory droplets
• Saliva
• Sexual contact
• Urine

Some young children release the virus in their urine for a long period of time, even when they do not have symptoms. CMV infection may occur at any age. It most commonly develops between ages 10 - 35.

Most people are exposed to CMV early in life and do not realize it because they have no symptoms. People with a compromised immune system can have a more severe form of the disease.

Symptoms

• Enlarged lymph nodes, especially in the neck
• Fever
• Frequent tiredness or fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Malaise
• Muscle aches or stiffness
• Rash
• Sore throat

Less common symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Cough
• Headache
• Hives
• Irregular heart rate
• Jaundice
• Neck stiffness
• Rapid heart rate
• Sensitivity to light
• Shortness of breath
• Swollen spleen

Signs and tests

Your health care provider will perform a physical exam and feel your belly area. The liver and spleen may be tender when they are gently pressed (palpated). There may be a skin rash.

Special lab tests may be done to check for substances in your blood that are produced by CMV. This includes a CMV ELISA antibody test and CMV serum PCR test.

Other tests include:

• Blood tests for platelets and white blood cells
• Chemistry panel
• Monospot test