Cost-effectiveness of screening and valacyclovir-based treatment strategies for first-trimester cytomegalovirus primary infection in pregnant women in France

Prenatal Screening for CMV Primary Infection: A Cost-Utility Model

OBJECTIVE

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a major cause of deafness and neurodevelopmental disability in children. Our objective was to assess the cost utility of first-trimester serological CMV screening, compared to screening of high-risk pregnancies and no serological screening.

DESIGN

A decision-analytic model was created to compare the cost utility of three strategies from a healthcare sector perspective: universal first-trimester serological screening, screening only of high-risk pregnant women (both including antiviral prophylaxis in cases of primary infection) and serological testing triggered by foetal morphological ultrasound (no CMV serological screening).

SETTING

Canada.

POPULATION

Hypothetical population of 80 000 pregnant women.

METHODS

Probability, expected values and cost estimates were derived from published literature and local hospital and national insurance data.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Cost per maternal and infant quality-adjusted life year (QALY) lost.

RESULTS

Universal serological screening was superior to both screening of high-risk women and no screening (utility of -0.42, -0.63 and - 0.87 QALY lost, respectively). Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that universal screening was the most cost-effective strategy regardless of the incidence of primary infection, the acceptability of amniocentesis and the efficacy of antiviral prophylaxis. In the Monte Carlo analyses, universal serological screening was the most cost-effective option in 96.36% of simulations. Universal serological screening would allow detection of 152 cases of primary maternal CMV infection and would prevent 29 cases of congenital CMV infection annually.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support the adoption of a population-based prenatal screening programme for the prevention of congenital CMV infection.

[Secondary Prevention of Fetal Cytomegalovirus Infection Through Valacyclovir Administration in Maternal Primary Infections During the Periconceptional Period and First Trimester of Pregnancy]

OBJECTIVES

Oral administration of valacyclovir at 8g/day significantly reduces the rate of vertical transmission of CMV in women with a primary CMV infection acquired during the periconceptional period or the first trimester. The aim of this study is to expand the findings of previously published studies by including all recent cohorts on the subject.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Central), and "clinical trial" registry (www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov) were consulted. Randomized controlled trials and cohort studies administering oral valacyclovir at 8g/day to pregnant women with a primary CMV infection acquired during the periconceptional period or the first trimester were included. Cochrane's Risk of Bias 2 and ROBINS-I tools were used to assess the risk of bias. The result of the CMV PCR in the amniotic fluid was the primary outcome. A two-step individual patient data meta-analysis was conducted, and a subgroup analysis was performed, evaluating periconceptional and first-trimester infections separately.

RESULTS

Four studies (1 RCT and 3 cohorts) were included in the analysis (n=860 women). A significant reduction in the rate of the CMV vertical transmission was observed in the Valacyclovir group (aOR=0.39, 95% CI 0.25-0.59). This reduction was significant for both the periconceptional period (aOR=0.30, 95% CI 0.13-0.68) and the first trimester (aOR=0.47, 95% CI 0.28-0.78). Valacyclovir also reduced the rate of neonatal infections, aOR=0.45 (95% CI 0.25-0.83), for both periods considered (aOR=0.42, 95% CI 0.20-0.90, and aOR=0.54, 95% CI 0.29-0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

The current evidence suggests that oral valacyclovir (8g/day) is associated with reduction of the rate of vertical transmission of CMV following maternal primary infection acquired during the periconceptional period or the first trimester of pregnancy.

Detection of human cytomegalovirus cell-free DNA in pregnant women with symptomatically infected fetuses: proof-of-concept study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the presence and levels of cytomegalovirus (CMV) cell-free DNA (cfDNA) fragments in women pregnant with a fetus with symptomatic congenital CMV (cCMV).

METHODS

The study comprised nine women whose fetuses were diagnosed with cCMV between June 2019 and July 2024 at 20 + 4 to 34 + 1 weeks' gestation (n = 8) or neonatally (n = 1) after primary or non-primary maternal infection. In eight women, cfDNA sequencing data from a single timepoint were analyzed, either retrospectively, on data generated from 11-13 weeks' gestation (n = 5) or prospectively, on data generated from 20-26 weeks' gestation (n = 3), upon the diagnosis of cCMV. In one woman (Case 6), CMV-cfDNA analysis was performed at four timepoints: at 12 + 5 weeks (routine non-invasive prenatal testing); 23 + 3 weeks (cCMV diagnosis); and 30 min and 12 h after termination of pregnancy (TOP) at 23 + 6 weeks.

RESULTS

CMV-cfDNA was detectable in all cases. Mostly low levels of CMV-cfDNA were observed in samples obtained at 11-13 weeks' gestation and consistently high levels of CMV-cfDNA were present in samples obtained at cCMV diagnosis. In Case 6, the level of maternal CMV-cfDNA decreased substantially in the samples tested after TOP, compared with samples obtained before TOP.

CONCLUSIONS

Low levels of CMV-cfDNA detected between 11 and 13 weeks may be a biomarker for severe fetal cCMV. CMV-cfDNA analysis in the first trimester could be of added value in CMV screening, particularly for non-primary maternal infections that cannot be identified using other methods. However, as CMV-cfDNA is detectable in many pregnant women in the first trimester, further studies are needed to determine the predictive value of CMV-cfDNA as a biomarker for the development of severe fetal cCMV. High levels of CMV-cfDNA at fetal cCMV diagnosis and low levels directly after TOP suggest that the level of CMV-cfDNA in maternal plasma may not necessarily reflect an active maternal infection, but could indicate a placental infection. © 2025 The Author(s). Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Universal screening and valacyclovir for first trimester primary cytomegalovirus: a cost-effectiveness analysis

BACKGROUND

Universal prenatal screening for cytomegalovirus is not currently recommended in the United States, as no effective interventions have previously been available. With growing evidence that treating maternal first trimester primary cytomegalovirus infections with valacyclovir reduces vertical transmission, universal screening may become an important tool in congenital cytomegalovirus prevention.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the cost-effectiveness of a universal screening approach for maternal cytomegalovirus in the first trimester of pregnancy followed by valacyclovir treatment in positive cases for prevention of the sequelae of congenital cytomegalovirus.

STUDY DESIGN

A decision-analytic model was constructed to compare outcomes of universal screening and subsequent valacyclovir treatment in a theoretical cohort of 2,869,141 individuals, the estimated number of pregnant people in the United States who receive prenatal care by the first trimester. Individuals found to be immunoglobulin G positive, immunoglobulin M positive, and to have low immunoglobulin G avidity were considered to have primary cytomegalovirus infection and received valacyclovir. Outcomes included cases of vertical cytomegalovirus transmission, abortions, stillbirths, neonatal deaths, cases of hearing loss, cases of neurodevelopmental disabilities, costs, and quality-adjusted life years. Model inputs were derived from literature. Sensitivity analyses were performed via tornado analysis, univariable sensitivity analysis, and multivariable sensitivity analysis with Monte Carlo simulation.

RESULTS

In our study, universal screening in the first trimester for primary cytomegalovirus and subsequent treatment with valacyclovir in positive cases decreased adverse outcomes by preventing 2898 vertical transmissions, 94 abortions, 19 stillbirths, 11 neonatal deaths, 460 cases of hearing loss, and 263 cases of neurodevelopmental disability. Universal screening and subsequent treatment was the dominant strategy as it saved 242.2 million dollars and led to 3437 additional quality-adjusted life years. Tornado analysis demonstrated that there were no threshold values which would change the model results, when all variables were varied across a predetermined range. Univariable sensitivity analyses demonstrated that even with decreasing specificity of screening tests, decreasing maternal utility of neonatal hearing loss, and increasing the price of screening up to 17 times the current cost, universal screening remained the cost-effective strategy. Monte Carlo analysis demonstrated that the screening strategy remained cost-saving in 100% of trials.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate that screening for first trimester primary cytomegalovirus may be a cost-saving intervention, as identification of cases allows for the provision of treatment, which in turn reduces vertical cytomegalovirus transmission and costly sequelae.

Screening frequency for congenital cytomegalovirus in Flanders, Belgium - a multicentre retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the screening practices for congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) in Flanders, Belgium, with the aim of determining the frequency of neonatal screening and the number of diagnoses resulting from it.

METHODS

Flemish hospitals with maternity facilities were asked for data on the number of infants screened for cCMV (PCR-CMV on saliva or urine), and diagnosed with cCMV (positive PCR-CMV on urine before the age of 3 weeks). Screening and diagnosis rates were compared across geographic regions and screening policies. We defined that at least 3% of neonates should be screened, given the prevalence of common screening indications (i.e. microcephaly and IUGR), and evaluated whether the empirical incidence of cCMV (0.5%) was approached.

RESULTS

Fifty of 57 eligible hospitals participated. Overall, 1.65% of infants were screened and 0.12% were diagnosed with cCMV. Few hospitals screened 3% or more of infants (14/50), and measured an incidence of 0.5% or more (6/50). Hospitals using targeted screening policies conducted fewer screenings (median 1.5% vs 94.2%, p < 0.001) and diagnosed fewer infants (median 0.10% vs 0.54%, p < 0.001) compared to hospitals that screened universally.

CONCLUSION

There was important variability in cCMV screening practices across Flanders. Most hospitals screened fewer than 3% of infants, i.e. lower than the prevalence of microcephaly, a clinical feature that warrants testing for cCMV. Failure to diagnose cCMV in a timely manner limits the opportunities for early treatment with valganciclovir (secondary prevention) and morbidities such as hearing loss (tertiary prevention). There is a pressing need to enhance the knowledge and vigilance of perinatal healthcare professionals in Flanders, ensuring infants at risk of cCMV are appropriately identified and receive timely care.

Current evidence gaps to support systematic cytomegalovirus screening in pregnancy

The benefits of screening for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection during pregnancy remain a topic of debate. To date, no randomized trial has compared the impact of screening versus routine management on the prevention of severe sequelae in newborns. Furthermore, it is unclear what actions can be taken in case of a positive screening given that there is limited evidence of effective interventions as no treatments showed significant effect on the frequency of congenital cytomegalovirus infections and, as additional challenge, the window for effective treatment initiation after maternal infection is narrow, estimated to be as short as five weeks. Universal screening of all pregnant women could lead to a high number of false positives. There are also concerns regarding the cost-effectiveness of universal screening and the capacity of healthcare professionals that may struggle to manage the increased workload, and we argue that the conditions for implementing such a programme are not yet met. In this Viewpoint we aim at highlighting these challenges and stimulating the forthcoming discussion on how to fill the gaps before CMV screening in pregnancy could be adopted as a standard practice.

Progress and Challenges in the Management of Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the most common intrauterine viral infection with a significant impact on the foetus and newborn. Current diagnostic practice includes serological testing for specific antibodies, but there are no global screening protocols. Maternal CMV screening is often performed in conjunction with antenatal ultrasound. While most infections are asymptomatic, severe cases can lead to long-term disability or death. Antiviral therapies, mainly ganciclovir and valganciclovir, are reserved for symptomatic patients, especially those with central nervous system involvement. Although effective, these treatments are associated with significant side effects such as neutropenia and hepatotoxicity. Foscarnet and cidofovir are used as alternatives, but their efficacy and safety require further study in paediatric patient populations. The effectiveness of passive prophylaxis is still uncertain. The lack of universally accepted guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention and the risk of serious side effects highlight the need for continued research. This review evaluates current therapeutic strategies, discusses their efficacy and associated risks, and highlights the need for innovative approaches to improve outcomes for affected neonates.

Neonatal and short-term outcome after late vertical transmission in congenital CMV-infected fetuses following primary first-trimester maternal seroconversion

OBJECTIVE

To document the course of neonatal and short-term outcomes in pregnancies after first trimester CMV (cytomegalovirus) seroconversion and negative amniotic fluid (AF) CMV PCR.

METHODS

We included 375 patients with a first-trimester CMV seroconversion and amniocentesis at ≥21 weeks. Termination of pregnancy (TOP) was offered in case antenatally severe CMV-related fetopathy was documented either by ultrasound or by MRI. AF CMV PCR-negative fetuses underwent a PCR CMV on neonatal urine (NU). Perinatal and short-term infant outcomes were investigated by a questionnaire, sent to parents.

RESULTS

AF CMV PCR was positive in 118/375 cases (31.4%). TOP was performed in 46/118 (38.9%) and fetal demise occurred twice. Questionnaires were sent to 327 patients with an overall response rate of 77%. Three groups were considered: Group 1: the early infected group (AF CMV PCR positive; N=62), group 2: the late infected group (AF CMV PCR negative, NU CMV PCR positive; N=7) and group 3: the control group (AF+NU CMV PCR negative; N=160). Compared with group 3, group 1 was more frequently symptomatic at birth (6.2% vs 19.4%; p=0.006). In short-term follow-up, hearing impairment (23.5%; p<0.001), mild motor deficit - defined as abnormal early motor development or the need for physiotherapy in later life (21.6%; p=0.005) - and subnormal vision (15.7%; p=0.02) were significantly more frequent. Compared with group 3, group 2 showed more often jaundice (57.1%; p=0.04) and petechiae (28.6%; p=0.04) at birth, but other short-term symptoms were lacking.

CONCLUSION

Although neonates may screen positive on urine for CMV after an AF CMV negative PCR, they show rarely and only mild sequelae in early life.

Ophthalmic Complications, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Congenital Human Cytomegalovirus Infection

Background: Human cytomegalovirus (hCMV) is the most common etiological agent of congenital infections seen in newborns. Among the most commonly observed complications in children with congenital human cytomegalovirus infection are those affecting the visual system. Ocular complications of congenital CMV (cCMV) are a topic rarely addressed in the literature, which prompted the authors to update the available knowledge with the latest data. Methodology: English-language literature published between April 2000 and November 2023 (PubMed, NIH, Google Scholar) was analyzed for ocular complications of cCMV. The data obtained were categorized according to the ocular area involved and the incidence. A compilation of criteria for the symptomatic form of cCMV was also created. Results: The cCMV complications described in the literature affect all parts of the visual system: the anterior segment, the posterior segment, the posterior visual pathways, and the visual cortex. The most commonly described ocular complication of cCMV is choroidal and retinal scarring. Conclusions: Ophthalmic complications of cCMV can cause severe visual disturbances. Ophthalmic diagnosis in newborns should include hCMV PCR testing, which has the highest sensitivity and specificity. In the symptomatic form of cCMV, treatment should be instituted according to recommendations. A consensus should be established for screening of primary hCMV infection in pregnant women, the way in which to define the symptomatic form of cCMV, and the appropriateness and standards of treatment for primary hCMV infection in pregnant women.

[Implementation of screening for cytomegalovirus congenital infection in a French type 3 maternity]

OBJECTIVES

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the most common congenital infection and the leading cause of infectious neurosensorial disability in newborns. We wanted to organize the management of women from the beginning of pregnancy allowing access to antenatal treatment with valaciclovir, recognized since 2020 as limiting materno-fetal transmission. To this end, we set up and evaluated the interest of systematic screening for CMV infection in our maternity. We wanted to organize care for women from the very start of pregnancy.

METHODS

Retrospective and comparative descriptive study carried out at the CHRU de Limoges from July 2017 to December 2019 (targeted screening), then from January 2020 to June 2022, during which period we implemented systematized screening by iterative serologies at the 3rd, 6th, 8th months and before delivery. Our main evaluation criteria were the seroprevalence of CMV infection and the rate of congenital infection. We then described our cases of infection (primary or secondary) during pregnancy.

RESULTS

CMV seroprevalence in our pregnant women increased significantly from 52.7% (779/1478 women screened) to 58.4% (3852/6599 women screened) between the 2 study periods (P=0.04). We diagnosed 11 infections during the first part of the study vs. 27 during the second, with a significant increase in primary infections from 0.14% (9/6524 births) to 0.37% (24/6426 births) (P=0.008). Only 3 secondary infections were diagnosed during the second study period. The rate of congenital infections remained stable between the 2 study periods (6 children/6524=0.09% vs. 8 children/6426=0.12%; P=0.57).

CONCLUSION

Our results confirmed the interest of screening for CMV infection, while modifying the screening strategy we had initiated.

Consensus recommendation for prenatal, neonatal and postnatal management of congenital cytomegalovirus infection from the European congenital infection initiative (ECCI)

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection carries a significant burden with a 0.64% global prevalence and a 17-20% chance of serious long-term effects in children. Since the last guidelines, our understanding, particularly regarding primary maternal infections, has improved. A cCMV guidelines group was convened under the patronage of the European Society of Clinical Virology in April 2023 to refine these insights. The quality and validity of selected studies were assessed for potential biases and the GRADE framework was employed to evaluate quality of evidence across key domains. The resulting recommendations address managing cCMV, spanning prevention to postnatal care. Emphasizing early and accurate maternal diagnosis through serological tests enhances risk management and prevention strategies, including using valaciclovir to prevent vertical transmission. The guidelines also strive to refine personalized postnatal care based on risk assessments, ensuring targeted interventions for affected families.