Peer Reviewed
Clinical case review

Cytomegalovirus in pregnancy: still as elusive as ever

Marc Jnc Keirse
Abstract
Careful consideration is needed when deciding on the best course of action for this woman with a suspected cytomegalovirus infection in early pregnancy.
Key Points
    Case scenario

    Josie is aged 23 years and was very happy to learn that she was pregnant for the first time. However, the routine antenatal blood tests revealed that she had lymphocytosis and many atypical cells. Josie felt well and was totally asymptomatic, but follow-up testing showed that she had a current infection with cytomegalovirus – both IgM and IgG were positive. A repeat check one week later showed the same result. Josie is now eight weeks pregnant.

    What are the implications of this infection for her pregnancy and the future development of her baby?