Clinical Implications for Children Born With Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection Following a Negative Amniocentesis

Long-term follow-up of a series of 24 congenital CMV-infected babies with false negative amniocentesis

BACKGROUND

Congenital CMV infection is the most common congenital infection worldwide and a major cause of neurological impairment and sensorineural hearing loss. Fetal CMV infection is confirmed by a positive PCR test in the amniotic fluid (amniocentesis performed after 18-20 weeks of gestation and at least 8 weeks after maternal infection). However, despite a negative antenatal CMV PCR result, some newborns can be tested positive at birth. Although not widely documented, the prognosis for these babies appears to be good.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term prognosis of fetuses with a false-negative AFS for cCMV, with a minimum follow-up period of 6 years.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study of false-negative amniocentesis reported at the CUB-Hôpital Erasme and Hôpital CHIREC in Brussels between 1985 and 2017.

RESULTS

Of the 712 negative CMV PCR amniocenteses, 24 had a CMV PCR positive at birth. The false negative rate was 8.6 %. Of the 24 cases, 9 primary maternal infections occurred in the first trimester, 14 in the second trimester and 1 in the third trimester. Among the 24 children, 2 had symptoms at birth (hyperbilirubinemia and left paraventricular cysts), but all had normal follow-up (minimum 4 years, mean 16,6 years).

DISCUSSION

Only 2 cases could be explained by early amniocentesis. Among the others, the false-negative results could be attributed to a low viral load, a delayed infection or, less likely, to a sample degradation.

CONCLUSION

Despite the false-negative results, all 24 children had a normal long-term follow-up.

T-Cell Immune Responses in Newborns and Long-Term Sequelae in Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection (CYTRIC Study)

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the role of T-lymphocyte immune responses in newborns with congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection (cCMV) and their potential association with the development of long-term sequelae.

STUDY DESIGN

A multicenter, prospective study from 2017 to 2022 was conducted across 8 hospitals in Spain. Blood samples were collected within the first month of life from neonates diagnosed with cCMV. Intracellular cytokine staining was employed to evaluate the presence of CMV-specific interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)-producing CD8+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes (CMV-IFN-γ-CD8+/CD4+) using flow cytometry. The development of sequelae, including hearing loss and neurologic impairment, was assessed during follow-up.

RESULTS

In total, 64 newborns were included; 42 infants (65.6%) had symptomatic cCMV. The median age at the last follow-up visit was 25.3 months (IQR 20.1-34.4). Eighteen infants had long-term sequelae (28.1%), predominantly hearing loss (20.3%) and neurologic disorders (15.6%). No relationship was observed between total count or percentage of CMV-specific IFN-γ-CD8+ or CD4+ lymphocytes and long-term sequelae. Multivariable analysis demonstrated an association between lower total lymphocyte count and long-term sequelae (aOR 0.549, 95% CI: 0.323-0.833), which requires further study.

CONCLUSIONS

CMV-specific IFN-γ-CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocyte responses in neonates with cCMV were not predictive of long-term sequelae.

Asymptomatic CMV infection at birth following maternal primary infection despite valacyclovir treatment and a subsequent negative amniocentesis. Case report

Valacyclovir is currently the only pharmacological intervention demonstrated to reduce the risk of vertical CMV congenital infection within a randomized clinical trial in case of primary infection during pregnancy. So far, no data are available on the prognosis of children with congenital CMV infection diagnosed at birth after a negative amniocentesis whose mother were treated with valacyclovir during pregnancy, therefore it is essential to carry out a rigorous neurocognitive follow-up in these children in order to investigate the potential clinical consequence.

Antiviral Treatment of Maternal and Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infections

Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a ubiquitous member of the Herpesviridae family, responsible for the most common congenital viral infection-congenital Cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection. While a majority of HCMV infections in children and adults are asymptomatic, HCMV is well known to cause severe infections in the immunocompromised individual and maternal infections with variable long-term sequelae after maternal-fetal transmission with primary or nonprimary infections. HCMV seroprevalence and cCMV incidence vary by geographic area and demographic characteristics like race and socioeconomic status. While cCMV birth prevalence ranges from 0.2% to 6% in different parts of the world, it is influenced by regional HCMV seroprevalence rates. HCMV screening during pregnancy is not routinely offered due to lack of awareness, hurdles to accurate diagnosis, and lack of well-established effective treatment options during pregnancy. This review will focus on antiviral treatment options currently available for use during pregnancy and in the newborn period for the treatment of maternal and congenital HCMV infections.

Treatment with valacyclovir during pregnancy for prevention of congenital cytomegalovirus infection: a real-life multicenter Italian observational study

BACKGROUND

Valacyclovir is the only treatment demonstrated to be effective for the prevention of vertical transmission of cytomegalovirus within a clinical randomized, placebo-controlled trial and has been reimbursed by the Italian National Health System since December 2020.

OBJECTIVE

This study reported the results of a real-life Italian multicenter observational study on cytomegalovirus infection in pregnancy evaluating the effect of the introduction of valacyclovir in the clinical practice for the prevention of vertical transmission of cytomegalovirus.

STUDY DESIGN

The outcomes of women who received valacyclovir treatment and their fetuses or newborns were compared with those of a retrospective cohort observed between 2010 and 2020 who did not receive the antiviral treatment. The inclusion criterion was the diagnosis of cytomegalovirus primary infection occurring in the periconceptional period or up to 24 weeks of gestation. The primary outcome was the transmission by the time of amniocentesis. The secondary outcomes were termination of pregnancy, transmission at birth, symptomatic infection at birth, and a composite outcome (termination of pregnancy or transmission at birth).

RESULTS

A total of 447 pregnant women from 10 centers were enrolled, 205 women treated with valacyclovir (called the valacyclovir group, including 1 twin pregnancy) and 242 women not treated with valacyclovir (called the no-valacyclovir group, including 2 twin pregnancies). Valacyclovir treatment was significantly associated with a reduction of the diagnosis of congenital cytomegalovirus infection by the time of amniocentesis (weighted odds ratio, 0.39; 90% confidence interval, 0.22-0.68; P=.005; relative reduction of 61%), termination of pregnancy (weighted odds ratio, 0.36; 90% confidence interval, 0.17-0.75; P=.0021; relative reduction of 64%), symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus infection at birth (weighted odds ratio, 0.17; 90% confidence interval, 0.06-0.49; P=.006; relative reduction of 83%). The treatment had no significant effect on the rate of diagnosis of congenital cytomegalovirus infection at birth (weighted odds ratio, 0.85; 90% confidence interval, 0.57-1.26; P=.500), but the composite outcome (termination of pregnancy or diagnosis of congenital cytomegalovirus infection at birth) occurred more frequently in the no-valacyclovir group (weighted odds ratio, 0.62; 90% confidence interval, 0.44-0.88; P=.024). Of note, the only symptomatic newborns with congenital cytomegalovirus infection in the valacyclovir group (n=3) were among those with positive amniocentesis. Moreover, 19 women (9.3%) reported an adverse reaction to valacyclovir treatment, classified as mild in 17 cases and moderate in 2 cases. Lastly, 4 women (1.9%) presented renal toxicity with a slight increase in creatinine level, which was reversible after treatment suspension.

CONCLUSION

Our real-life data confirm that valacyclovir significantly reduces the rate of congenital cytomegalovirus diagnosis at the time of amniocentesis with a good tolerability profile and show that the treatment is associated with a reduction of termination of pregnancy and symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus infection at birth.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) seroprevalence among women at childbearing age, maternal and congenital CMV infection: policy implications of a descriptive, retrospective, community-based study

BACKGROUND

Maternal CMV infection during pregnancy, either primary or non-primary, may be associated with fetal infection and long-term sequelae. While guidelines recommend against it, screening for CMV in pregnant women is a prevalent clinical practice in Israel. Our aim is to provide updated, local, clinically relevant, epidemiological information about CMV seroprevalence among women at childbearing age, the incidence of maternal CMV infection during pregnancy and the prevalence of congenital CMV (cCMV), as well as to provide information about the yield of CMV serology testing.

METHODS

We performed a descriptive, retrospective study of women at childbearing age who were members of Clalit Health Services in the district of Jerusalem and had at least one gestation during the study period (2013-2019). We utilized serial serology tests to determine CMV serostatus at baseline and at pre/periconception and identified temporal changes in CMV serostatus. We then conducted a sub-sample analysis integrating inpatient data on newborns of women who gave birth in a single large medical center. cCMV was defined as either positive urine CMV-PCR test in a sample collected during the first 3 weeks of life, neonatal diagnosis of cCMV in the medical records, or prescription of valganciclovir during the neonatal period.

RESULTS

The study population Included 45,634 women with 84,110 associated gestational events. Initial CMV serostatus was positive in 89% women, with variation across different ethno-socioeconomic subgroups. Based on consecutive serology tests, the detected incidence rate of CMV infection was 2/1000 women follow-up years, among initially seropositive women, and 80/1000 women follow-up years, among initially seronegative women. CMV infection in pregnancy was identified among 0.2% of women who were seropositive at pre/periconception and among 10% of women who were seronegative. In a subsample, which included 31,191 associated gestational events, we identified 54 newborns with cCMV (1.9/1000 live births). The prevalence of cCMV among newborns of women who were seropositive at pre/periconception was lower than among newborns of women who were seronegative (2.1 vs. 7.1/1000). Frequent serology tests among women who were seronegative at pre/periconception detected most primary CMV infections in pregnancy that resulted in cCMV (21/24). However, among women who were seropositive, serology tests prior to birth detected none of the non-primary infections that resulted in cCMV (0/30).

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective community-based study among women of childbearing age characterized by multiparity and high seroprevalence of CMV, we find that consecutive CMV serology testing enabled to detect most primary CMV infections in pregnancy that led to cCMV in newborns but failed to detect non-primary CMV infections in pregnancy. Conducting CMV serology tests among seropositive women, despite guidelines' recommendations, has no clinical value, while it is costly and introduces further uncertainties and distress. We thus recommend against routine CMV serology testing among women who were seropositive in a prior serology test. We recommend CMV serology testing prior to pregnancy only among women known to be seronegative or women whose serology status is unknown.

Clinical Value of Serial Quantitative Analysis of Cytomegalovirus DNA in Blood and Saliva Over the First 24 Months of Life in Congenital Infection: The French Cymepedia Cohort

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate cytomegalovirus (CMV) viral load dynamics in blood and saliva during the first 2 years of life in symptomatic and asymptomatic infected infants and to identify whether these kinetics could have practical clinical implications.

STUDY DESIGN

The Cymepedia cohort prospectively included 256 congenitally infected neonates followed for 2 years. Whole blood and saliva were collected at inclusion and months 4 and 12, and saliva at months 18 and 24. Real-time CMV polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed, results expressed as log₁₀ IU/mL in blood and in copies per milliliter in saliva.

RESULTS

Viral load in saliva progressively decreased from 7.5 log₁₀ at birth to 3.3 log₁₀ at month 24. CMV PCR in saliva was positive in 100% and 96% of infants at 6 and 12 months, respectively. In the first month of life, neonatal saliva viral load of less than 5 log₁₀ was related to a late CMV transplacental passage. Detection in blood was positive in 92% of neonates (147/159) in the first month of life. No viral load threshold values in blood or saliva could be associated with a high risk of sequelae. Neonatal blood viral load of less than 3 log₁₀ IU/mL had a 100% negative predictive value for long-term sequelae.

CONCLUSIONS

Viral loads in blood and saliva by CMV PCR testing in congenital infection fall over the first 24 months. In this study of infants affected mainly after primary maternal infection during pregnancy, all salivary samples were positive in the first 6 months of life and sequelae were not seen in infants with neonatal blood viral load of less than 3 log₁₀ IU/mL.

Neonatal and long-term outcomes of infants with congenital cytomegalovirus infection and negative amniocentesis: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA is detectable in the amniotic fluid collected by amniocentesis in cases in which the fetus has been infected. However, cases of congenital neonatal CMV infection with a negative amniocentesis result have also been reported in the literature. The aim of the present study was to compare pregnancies with a negative amniocentesis result to those with a positive amniocentesis result in terms of incidence of fetal insult and long-term sequelae.

METHODS

Observational studies that included pregnant women with CMV infection who underwent amniocentesis and that reported their results together with neonatal and/or long-term outcomes of the offspring were included. The risk of bias in included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The rate of severe symptoms at birth, defined as neurological symptoms or multiorgan involvement at birth, and the rate of severe sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and/or neurodevelopmental impairment at follow-up were the main outcomes of the study. The secondary outcome was the rate of pregnancy termination due to the presence of CMV-associated central nervous system (CNS) findings or multiorgan involvement on ultrasound/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

RESULTS

Seven studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled false-negative rate of amniocentesis was 8.0% (95% CI, 5.0-13.0%). The pooled rate of severe symptoms at birth was 0.0% (95% CI, 0.0-1.0%; I²  = 0%) in fetuses with a negative amniocentesis result and 22.0% (95% CI, 11.0-38.0%; I²  = 75%) in those with a positive amniocentesis result. The pooled odds ratio (OR) was 0.03 (95% CI, 0.01-0.10; I²  = 0%). The pooled rate of severe SNHL and/or neurodevelopmental impairment at follow-up in fetuses with a negative amniocentesis result was 0.0% (95% CI, 0.0-1.0%; I²  = 0%) and, in those with a positive amniocentesis result, it was 14.0% (95% CI, 7.0-26.0%; I²  = 64%). The pooled OR was 0.04 (95% CI, 0.01-0.14; I²  = 0%). The pooled rate of pregnancy termination due to the presence of CMV-associated CNS findings or multiorgan involvement on ultrasound/MRI was 0.0% (95% CI, 0.0-2.0%; I²  = 0%) in fetuses with a negative amniocentesis result and 20.0% (95% CI, 10.0-36.0%; I²  = 82%) in those with a positive amniocentesis result. The pooled OR was 0.03 (95% CI, 0.01-0.08; I²  = 0%). A subgroup analysis including only pregnancies with primary CMV infection and a sensitivity analysis including only prospective studies were carried out, showing very similar results to those of the main analysis.

CONCLUSION

A negative amniocentesis result in pregnant women with CMV infection ensures lack of fetal insult and long-term sequelae to the child, even if transmission has occurred. © 2022 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

New data on efficacy of valacyclovir in secondary prevention of maternal-fetal transmission of cytomegalovirus

OBJECTIVE

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the leading cause of non-genetic hearing and neurological deficits. The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of valacyclovir (VCV) treatment in preventing CMV transmission to the fetus after maternal primary infection.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, multicenter study evaluating the rate of maternal-fetal CMV transmission in pregnancies with maternal primary CMV infection treated with VCV at a dosage of 8 g per day (VCV group) compared with a control group of untreated women. Each case underwent virological testing to confirm maternal primary infection and to provide accurate dating of onset of infection. The primary outcome was the presence of congenital CMV infection at birth diagnosed based on polymerase chain reaction analysis of saliva, urine and/or blood samples. The efficacy of VCV treatment was assessed using logistic regression analysis adjusted for a propensity score.

RESULTS

In total, 143 patients were included in the final analysis, of whom 59 were in the VCV group and 84 were in the untreated control group. On propensity-score-adjusted analysis, VCV treatment was significantly associated with an overall reduction in the rate of maternal-fetal CMV transmission (odds ratio, 0.40 (95% CI, 0.18-0.90); P = 0.029). The rate of maternal-fetal CMV transmission, determined at birth, in the VCV vs control group was 7% (1/14) vs 10% (1/10) after periconceptional maternal primary infection (P = 1.00), 22% (8/36) vs 41% (19/46) after first-trimester maternal primary infection (P = 0.068) and 25% (2/8) vs 52% (14/27) after second-trimester maternal primary infection (P = 0.244). When analyzing the efficacy of VCV treatment according to maternal viremia at treatment initiation, there was a trend towards greater efficacy when patients were viremia-positive (21% vs 43%; P = 0.072) compared with when they were viremia-negative (22% vs 17%; P = 0.659). Maternal side effects associated with VCV were mild and non-specific in most cases.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that VCV treatment of pregnant women with primary CMV infection reduces the risk of maternal-fetal transmission of CMV and may be effective in cases with primary infection in the first and second trimesters. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Amniocentesis to diagnose congenital cytomegalovirus infection following maternal primary infection

BACKGROUND

Congenital cytomegalovirus infection following maternal primary cytomegalovirus infection affects approximately 0.4% of newborns in the United States but may be hard to diagnose prenatally.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the current sensitivity and specificity of amniocentesis in detecting congenital cytomegalovirus infection.

STUDY DESIGN

Secondary analysis of a multicenter randomized placebo-controlled trial designed to evaluate whether cytomegalovirus hyperimmune globulin reduces congenital cytomegalovirus infection in neonates of individuals diagnosed with primary cytomegalovirus infection before 24 weeks of gestation. At randomization, subjects had no clinical evidence of fetal infection. Eligible subjects were randomized to monthly infusions of cytomegalovirus hyperimmune globulin or placebo until delivery. Although not required by the trial protocol, amniocentesis following randomization was permitted. The fetuses and neonates were tested for the presence of cytomegalovirus at delivery. Comparisons were made between those with and without amniocentesis and between those with cytomegalovirus-positive and negative results, using chi-square or Fisher exact test for categorical variables and the Wilcoxon rank sum test or t test for continuous variables. A P value of <.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

From 2012 to 2018, 397 subjects were included, of whom 55 (14%) underwent amniocentesis. Cytomegalovirus results were available for 53 fetuses and neonates. Fourteen amniocenteses were positive (25%). Gestational age at amniocentesis was similar between those with and without cytomegalovirus present, as was the interval between maternal diagnosis and amniocentesis. The prevalence of fetal or neonatal infection was 26% (14/53). The neonates of all 12 subjects with a positive amniocentesis and available results had cytomegalovirus infection confirmed at delivery, as did 2 neonates from the group of 41 subjects with a negative amniocentesis, with a sensitivity of 86% (95% confidence interval, 57-98), specificity of 100% (95% confidence interval, 91-100), positive predictive value of 100% (95% confidence interval, 74-100), and negative predictive value of 95% (95% confidence interval, 83-99). Amniocentesis-positive pregnancies were delivered at an earlier gestational age (37.4 vs 39.6 weeks; P<.001) and had lower birthweights (2583±749 vs 3428±608 g, P=.004) than amniocentesis-negative pregnancies.

CONCLUSION

Amniocentesis results are an accurate predictor of congenital cytomegalovirus infection.

Universal First-Trimester Cytomegalovirus Screening and Valaciclovir Prophylaxis in Pregnant Persons: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

BACKGROUND

Recent studies suggest a possible benefit of valaciclovir prophylaxis to prevent vertical transmission after a positive serologic screen for primary maternal cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy, although its cost-effectiveness remains uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine the circumstances under which universal first-trimester maternal serologic screening for maternal cytomegalovirus infection, with valaciclovir prophylaxis to prevent congenital cytomegalovirus, is cost-effective.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a decision analysis from the perspective of the pregnant person to assess whether universal maternal screening in the first trimester, with subsequent valaciclovir prophylaxis (8g/day from time of positive serologic screen for primary maternal cytomegalovirus infection through 21 weeks' gestation) for those who are acutely infected, is cost-effective compared to usual care (i.e., no routine serologic screening, but amniocentesis if mid-trimester sonographic findings suggest cytomegalovirus). For baseline estimates, we assumed a 35% risk of congenital cytomegalovirus after primary maternal infection and a 71% risk reduction with valaciclovir. We varied valaciclovir's efficacy to identify whether and at what threshold universal screening would be estimated to be cost-effective, compared to usual care. Monte Carlo analyses were performed. A willingness-to-pay threshold of $100,000/quality-adjusted life year was used to define cost-effectiveness.

RESULTS

Under base-case estimates, first-trimester universal screening and valaciclovir prophylaxis for seropositive pregnant persons with acute cytomegalovirus infection is not cost-effective, with a cost of $137,854 per maternal QALY, but results in 14 fewer cytomegalovirus-affected children per 100,000 pregnancies compared to usual care. In one-way sensitivity analysis, universal screening and treatment is estimated to be the cost-effective strategy if the incidence of primary maternal cytomegalovirus infection exceeds 2.6%, baseline risk of vertical transmission of cytomegalovirus without prophylaxis is greater than 36.8%, and the risk reduction of vertical transmission of cytomegalovirus with valaciclovir prophylaxis exceeds 75.9%. In Monte Carlo analyses, first-trimester universal serologic screening with valaciclovir prophylaxis is estimated to be the cost-effective strategy in 46.8% of runs.

CONCLUSION

Universal first-trimester serologic screening with valaciclovir prophylaxis is not the cost-effective strategy for antenatal management of cytomegalovirus under the base-case estimates. Although universal screening is cost-effective in certain circumstances when the efficacy of valaciclovir exceeds the base case, that result is not robust to variation of estimates across their reasonable ranges. These data can inform future studies to evaluate screening and treatment to prevent congenital CMV.

First-line noninvasive management of cytomegalovirus primary infection in pregnancy

OBJECTIVES

To introduce a first-line noninvasive antenatal management of maternal cytomegalovirus (CMV) primary infection based on ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Amniocentesis (AC) is used as a second-line tool in cases of abnormalities compatible with fetal CMV infection on US and/or MRI screening.

METHODS

Between January 2011 and October 2018, pregnant women referred with a CMV primary infection on antibody screening were followed up by monthly US scans and a brain MRI at approximately 32 weeks. In cases with US and/or MRI abnormalities compatible with congenital CMV infection, AC was performed to confirm the diagnosis.

RESULTS

Ninety pregnant women with a primary CMV infection were included (89 singleton and one twin pregnancy). The first-line screening by US and/or MRI was normal for 72 of 91 fetuses (79%). At birth, 19 of these 72 neonates (26%) had a positive urine sample for CMV but were asymptomatic. US and/or MRI abnormalities were identified in 19 fetuses (21%). AC confirmed a fetal CMV infection in 16 fetuses (84%); 12 pregnancies were terminated, and four were continued, with three symptomatic neonates at birth and one poor neurodevelopmental outcome at postnatal follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

First-line noninvasive management of maternal CMV primary infection based on serial US scans and brain MRI can be offered to identify fetuses with severe symptomatic congenital CMV infection and reduce the number of ACs without compromising the fetal outcome.

Cranial ultrasound and MRI: complementary or not in the diagnostic assessment of children with congenital CMV infection?

Whether or not cranial ultrasound (crUS) and cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have both a place in the assessment of children with congenital cytomegalovirus infection (cCMV) remains a topic of discussion between research groups. Literature suggests that MRI is indicated only in children with abnormal crUS.In Flanders, Belgium, combined crUS and MRI was performed on 639 children with cCMV, referred for diagnostic assessment. Cranial US was classified as abnormal in the presence of striatal vasculopathy, calcifications, cysts, cystic germinolysis, and/or ventriculomegaly. MRI findings were classified as abnormal in the presence of gyration disorders, cerebellar abnormalities, ventriculomegaly, cysts, or pathologic white matter lesions.One in five children (93/480) with normal crUS showed abnormal findings on MRI. Of them, 85 (91.4%) were classified as symptomatic. In 37 of those 93 children (39.8%), classification as severely symptomatic was made based on MRI lesions alone. MRI and crUS proved to be complementary in the assessment of CNS involvement in children with cCMV. Long-term studies are needed to evaluate the importance of this finding with respect to outcome and benefit of therapy in this particular subgroup of patients with cCMV infection.Conclusion: Our findings support an enhanced role of MRI in the diagnosis of CNS involvement in children with cCMV infection. The ideal assessment should include both imaging techniques, as the strengths of each test compensate for the other's weaknesses. What is Known: • Congenital CMV infection involves the central nervous system with direct injury to and possible disruption of brain development. • Experts suggest that MRI is indicated only in children with abnormal crUS. What is New: • In almost 20% of our children with a normal cranial ultrasound, abnormalities were detected on MRI. • Our results suggest that performing both MRI and cranial US is important to obtain a complete assessment of central nervous system involvement in children with cCMV.

Results of a multicenter registry for congenital cytomegalovirus infection in Flanders, Belgium: From prenatal diagnosis over neonatal management to therapy

BACKGROUND

In 2006, a consensus was made on management and follow up of children with congenital cytomegalovirus infection (cCMV) in Flanders, Belgium. Since 2007 systematic registration of those children was initiated. In this report, focus is on the perinatal data of our population.

STUDY DESIGN

Children with confirmed diagnosis of cCMV were eligible for registration. Information on prenatal/neonatal investigations, management and therapy in those children was obtained.

RESULTS

Over 14 years, 1059 children were included. Symptomatic disease was diagnosed in 319/1059 (30,5%) children. Of those 13,5% were classified as mild, 16% as moderate and 70,5% as severe infections. Clinical signs at birth were present in 9,1%, central nervous system involvement in 31,2% and hearing loss in 15,5%. Antiviral therapy was given in 63,9% of patients eligible for therapy. Some of our data seem to confirm some hypotheses regarding cCMV or support the current recommendations for counselling and management. However, some data, although sometimes acquired in small groups, add to the discussion on some topics. Neonatal/prenatal screening or not, correlation between viral load and neonatal outcome or the use of both MRI and US in every child are some of those topics.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report on perinatal characteristics of children with cCMV in Flanders, Belgium during a 14-year period, based on a large multicenter CMV dataset. Worldwide, the systematic registration and follow-up of children with cCMV infection will become increasingly important to document the impact of forthcoming preventive and therapeutic measures.

Cytomegalovirus-A Risk Factor for Childhood Hearing Loss: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

Permanent hearing loss is an important public health issue in children with consequences for language, social, and academic functioning. Early hearing detection, intervention, and monitoring are important in mitigating the impact of permanent childhood hearing loss. Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a leading cause of hearing loss. The purpose of this review was to synthesize the evidence on the association between CMV infection and permanent childhood hearing loss.

DESIGN

We performed a systematic review and examined scientific literature from the following databases: MEDLINE, Ovid MEDLINE(R) Daily and Ovid MEDLINE(R), Embase, and CINAHL. The primary outcome was permanent bilateral or unilateral hearing loss with congenital onset or onset during childhood (birth to 18 years). The secondary outcome was progressive hearing loss. We included studies reporting data on CMV infection. Randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, nonrandomized comparative and noncomparative studies, and case series were considered. Data were extracted and the quality of individual studies was assessed with the Qualitative Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies (McMaster University). The quality and strength of the evidence were graded using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). A narrative synthesis was completed.

RESULTS

Sixty-five articles were included in the review. Prevalence of hearing loss at birth was over 33% among symptomatic CMV-infected newborns and less than 15% in asymptomatic infections. This difference in prevalence was maintained during childhood with more than 40% prevalence reported for symptomatic and less than 30% for asymptomatic CMV. Late-onset and progressive hearing loss appear to be characteristic of congenital CMV infections. Definitions of hearing loss, degree of loss, and reporting of laterality varied across studies. All degrees and both bilateral and unilateral loss were reported, regardless of symptomatic and asymptomatic status at birth, and no conclusions about the characteristics of hearing loss could be drawn. Various patterns of hearing loss were reported including stable, progressive, and fluctuating, and improvement in hearing (sometimes to normal hearing) was documented. These changes were reported in children with symptomatic/asymptomatic congenital CMV infection, presenting with congenital/early onset/late-onset hearing loss and in children treated and untreated with antiviral medication.

CONCLUSIONS

Symptomatic and asymptomatic congenital CMV infection should be considered a risk factor for hearing loss at birth and during childhood and for progressive hearing loss. Therefore, CMV should be included as a risk factor in screening and surveillance programs and be taken into account in clinical follow-up of children with hearing loss.

Secondary prevention of congenital cytomegalovirus infection with valacyclovir following maternal primary infection in early pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) maternal primary infection (MPI) in early pregnancy is the main risk factor for congenital CMV (cCMV) infection with long-term sequelae. Our aim was to evaluate, in a single center offering CMV serology screening at 11-14 gestational weeks, secondary prevention of cCMV by administration of high-dosage maternal oral valacyclovir (VACV) in the first trimester of pregnancy.

METHODS

This was a case-control study in a longitudinal cohort of pregnancies with CMV-MPI diagnosed prior to 14 weeks of gestation by serology screening (immunoglobulin (Ig) M and IgG measurement and IgG avidity) between 2009 and 2020. From October 2019 onwards, all women presenting at our center with MPI before 14 weeks' gestation were offered treatment with high-dosage oral VACV (8 g/day, 4 g twice/day). We used propensity score matching to compare fetal infection rates in cases treated with maternal oral VACV (8 g/day) with those in untreated controls. Fetal infection was assessed following amniocentesis at 17-22 weeks of gestation, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of amniotic fluid for viral DNA.

RESULTS

Of 310 cases of CMV-MPI identified, 269 underwent amniocentesis for PCR. Of these, 66 were offered, and 65 accepted, treatment with VACV. From the remaining untreated cases, we selected 65 controls, matched for proportion of periconceptional infections and gestational age at amniocentesis. VACV was initiated at a median gestational age of 12.71 (interquartile range (IQR), 10.00-13.86) weeks and the median duration of treatment was 35 (IQR, 26-54) days. On multivariate logistic regression, fetal infection was lower in the treated group (odds ratio, 0.318 (95% CI, 0.120-0.841); P = 0.021). One treated patient developed acute renal failure 4 weeks after initiation of VACV therapy, but this resolved within 5 days after treatment was stopped.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms the acceptability, tolerance and benefit of secondary prevention by VACV of cCMV infection in a clinical setting with a well-established routine maternal serum screening policy in the first trimester of pregnancy. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Congenital Human Cytomegalovirus Infection: A Narrative Review of Maternal Immune Response and Diagnosis in View of the Development of a Vaccine and Prevention of Primary and Non-Primary Infections in Pregnancy

Congenital cytomegalovirus infection (cCMV) may affect about 1% of all newborns all over the world as a result of either a primary or recurrent human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection. While about 90% of infants affected by cCMV are asymptomatic at birth, the remaining 10% are symptomatic often with neurodevelopmental impairment and sensorineural hearing loss. In view of identifying the best approach to vaccine prevention of cCMV, this review will examine the most important steps made in the study of the immune response to, and diagnosis of, HCMV infection. The maternal immune response and immune correlates of protection are being partially identified with a partial contribution given by our laboratory. The diagnosis of primary infection is often difficult to achieve in the first three months of pregnancy, which is the time primarily involved in virus transmission to the fetus in association with the most severe symptoms and sequelae. Prevention of cCMV is anticipated by prevention of primary infection in early pregnancy by means of different measures, such as (i) behavioral-educational measures, (ii) immunoglobulin administration, (iii) antiviral treatment with valaciclovir. However, the most promising approach to cCMV prevention appears to be the development of a non-living vaccine, including at least three viral antigens: gB, pentamer complex gHgLpUL128L, and pp65, which have been shown to be able to stimulate both the humoral and the cellular arms of the maternal immune response. Primary HCMV infection may be managed in pregnancy by counseling of the couples involved by a team of specialists that includes virologists, obstetricians, infectivologists and neonatologists.

First-trimester diagnosis of congenital cytomegalovirus infection after maternal primary infection in early pregnancy: feasibility study of viral genome amplification by PCR on chorionic villi obtained by CVS

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility of amplification of the viral genome by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of trophoblast samples obtained by chorionic villus sampling (CVS) in cases of maternal primary infection (MPI) with cytomegalovirus (CMV) in early pregnancy.

METHODS

This was a prospective study carried out at the Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Hopital Necker-E.M., between October 2019 and October 2020. Following CMV serology screening in early pregnancy, CVS was offered to women at 11-14 weeks' gestation after CMV-MPI ≤ 10 weeks. Array-comparative genomic hybridization and amplification of the viral genome by PCR were performed on the trophoblasts obtained by CVS. All cases also underwent amniocentesis from 17 weeks onwards and PCR was performed on the amniotic fluid. Secondary prevention with valacyclovir was initiated as soon as MPI was diagnosed, to decrease the risk of vertical transmission. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of CMV-PCR of trophoblast obtained by CVS, using as the reference standard PCR of amniotic fluid obtained by amniocentesis.

RESULTS

CVS was performed in 37 pregnancies, at a median (range) gestational age of 12.7 (11.3-14.4) weeks. CMV-PCR in chorionic villi was positive in three and negative in 34 cases. CMV-PCR following amniocentesis, performed at a median (range) gestational age of 17.6 (16.7-29.9) weeks, was positive for the three cases which were positive following CVS and, of the 34 patients with a negative finding following CVS, amniocentesis was negative in 31 and positive in three. The sensitivity of CMV-PCR analysis of trophoblast obtained by CVS for the diagnosis of CMV, using as the reference standard PCR analysis of amniotic fluid obtained by amniocentesis, was 50% (95% CI, 19-81%), specificity was 100% (95% CI, 89-100%), positive predictive value was 100% (95% CI, 44-100%) and negative predictive value was 91% (95% CI, 77-97%).

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnosis of placental infection following MPI in early pregnancy can be achieved by PCR amplification of the CMV genome in chorionic villi. We propose that negative CMV-PCR in the trophoblast after 12 weeks could be used to exclude CMV-related embryopathy leading to sequelae. However, this needs to be confirmed through long-term follow-up evaluation. These findings could help to establish CVS as the diagnostic test of choice following maternal serology screening in early pregnancy. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Outcome of pregnancies with recent primary cytomegalovirus infection in first trimester treated with hyperimmunoglobulin: observational study

OBJECTIVE

To examine the efficacy of hyperimmunoglobulin (HIG) treatment in women with a recent primary cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection up to 14 weeks' gestation.

METHODS

This is an ongoing observational study conducted at the prenatal medicine departments of the University Hospitals of Tübingen, Bonn, Cologne and Erlangen, Germany, as well as at the Laboratory Prof. Gisela Enders and Colleagues in Stuttgart, Germany and the Institute for Medical Virology at the University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany. Enrolment criteria were the presence of confirmed recent primary CMV infection in the first trimester and a gestational age at first HIG administration of ≤ 14 weeks. The following inclusion criteria indicated a recent primary infection: low anti-immunoglobulin (Ig)-G levels, low anti-CMV-IgG avidity in the presence of a positive CMV-IgM test and no positive reactivity or just seroconversion anti-gB2-IgG-reactivity. HIG administration was started as soon as possible within a few days after the first visit. HIG was administered intravenously at a dose of 200 IU/kg maternal body weight and repeated every 2 weeks until about 18 weeks' gestation. The primary outcome was maternal-fetal transmission at the time of amniocentesis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine significant covariates that could predict maternal-fetal transmission.

RESULTS

We included 149 pregnancies (153 fetuses) that completed the treatment. Median maternal age and weight were 32.0 years and 65.0 kg, respectively. Median gestational age at the time of first referral to one of the four centers was 9.4 weeks. Median anti-CMV-IgG level, anti-CMV-IgM index and CMV-IgG avidity were 5.7 U/mL, 2.5 and 22.3%, respectively. HIG treatment was started at a median gestational age of 10.6 weeks and ended at a median of 17.9 weeks. Within this time frame, HIG was administered on average four times in each patient. Amniocentesis was carried out at a median gestational age of 20.4 weeks. In 143 (93.5%) of the 153 cases, the fetus was not infected. Maternal-fetal transmission occurred in 10 cases (6.5% (95% CI, 3.2-11.7%)). On uni- and multivariate logistic regression analysis, the level of anti-IgM index was the only factor associated significantly with maternal-fetal transmission at amniocentesis. However, only four (40.0%) of the 10 cases with maternal-fetal transmission had an anti-IgM index above 11.4, which corresponds to the 95^th centile of pregnancies without transmission.

CONCLUSIONS

HIG is a treatment option to prevent maternal-fetal transmission in pregnancy with a primary CMV infection. However, HIG treatment seems to be beneficial primarily in women with a recent primary infection in the first trimester or during the periconceptional period, and when it is administered at a biweekly dose of 200 IU/kg. © 2021 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Is it time to adopt routine cytomegalovirus screening in pregnancy? No!

Congenital cytomegalovirus is caused by maternal primary or nonprimary infection during pregnancy and is a major preventable cause of neurodisability. The proposed strategies to reduce congenital cytomegalovirus include primary prevention with maternal hygiene measures and secondary prevention by serologic screening for detecting maternal primary infection. A recent randomized trial found that high-dose valaciclovir treatment resulted in a significant reduction in fetal infection after first-trimester maternal primary infection, leading to calls to start routine serologic screening in pregnancy. Previously, observational studies have found a reduction in fetal infection with after maternal primary cytomegalovirus infection when hyperimmune globulin is administered twice weekly during the first trimester of pregnancy; however, this has not been replicated in randomized trials that have used different regimens. Furthermore, some evidence from a single intervention trial and observational studies do not provide us with the necessary data required for rolling out an appropriate screening program. All screening tests may be associated with harm; in the case of congenital cytomegalovirus, there is the well-recognized potential for increasing terminations of pregnancy without diagnostic confirmation of fetal infection or sequelae. Although valaciclovir and hyperimmune globulin treatments may significantly reduce fetal infection rates, they do not prevent severe cytomegalovirus-related fetal brain damage in all pregnancies. Therefore, it is not clear that the offer of a prenatal intervention will provide sufficient reassurance to screen-positive women. In addition, the effectiveness of a prenatal screening and treatment strategy is predicated on a high rate of maternal primary infection, which is limited to regions with low cytomegalovirus seroprevalence, such as Western Europe. In some countries, such as the United States, Finland, and Brazil, nonprimary maternal infections are responsible for most congenital cytomegalovirus health burdens, limiting the potential impact of pregnancy screening. In this invited clinical perspective, we reviewed the evidence and outlined the steps needed to be taken before determining whether the benefits of routine screening for cytomegalovirus in pregnancy outweigh the harms. Until we have the necessary evidence, we should follow the current advice of multiple national health authorities and focus on promoting primary prevention through maternal hygiene precautions.

Advocating for cytomegalovirus maternal serologic screening in the first trimester of pregnancy: if you do not know where you are going, you will wind up somewhere else

Congenital cytomegalovirus infection is an important health problem for the individual and the community. Although it could derive from both primary and nonprimary maternal infection, the prospective risk of congenital infection in seronegative pregnant women is 4 times than that of immune women. Maternal serology is the only reliable screening tool in pregnancy that would identify up to 50% of all congenital cytomegalovirus infections, by yielding positive immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G and low immunoglobulin G avidity in approximately 0.5% of the population at 11 to 14 weeks. The exceptionally high risk for young parous seronegative women planning a second pregnancy makes a compelling case for offering serologic screening as soon as pregnancy is planned or diagnosed and by the end of the first trimester. The 11- to 14-week consultation has become an unmissable one worldwide and would represent the most practical compromise if only 1 sample can be taken. Valaciclovir that can be safely used in the early fetal period decreases vertical transmission by 70% and should be implemented as early as possible after maternal infection. Facilities for diagnosis and treatment are available in high- and middle-income countries through laboratory and fetal medicine networks. Amniocentesis with amplification of the viral DNA by polymerase chain reaction in the amniotic fluid is a reliable diagnostic test but chorionic villi sampled by chorionic villus sampling could achieve the same performance 2 months earlier. Fetal imaging of a known infected fetus yields a negative predictive value on symptoms at birth and congenital handicap of between 95% and 99%, and prenatal treatment of infected fetuses decreases the occurrence of symptoms at birth and at 2 years of age.

Maternal infections: revisiting the need for screening in pregnancy

The decision to implement screening for infections during pregnancy depends upon epidemiological, economic, therapeutic and test performance criteria. It therefore varies with public health priorities from country to country. When screening is implemented, the first trimester has become the best time slot to build individual care pathways in this field. This is most relevant for evaluating the risk of embryonic consequences, planning diagnostic testing, initiating primary or secondary prevention and optimising the accuracy of ultrasound follow-up. This article is a critical appraisal of epidemiological data and current international screening recommendations for infections in pregnancy. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT: Screening for infections in pregnancy: a critical review of current epidemiological evidence and international guidelines.

Clinical Diagnostic Testing for Human Cytomegalovirus Infections

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infections are among the most common complications arising in transplant patients, elevating the risk of various complications including loss of graft and death. HCMV infections are also responsible for more congenital infections worldwide than any other agent. Congenital HCMV (cCMV) infections are the leading nongenetic cause of sensorineural hearing loss and a source of significant neurological disabilities in children. While there is overlap in the clinical and laboratory approaches to diagnosis of HCMV infections in these settings, the management, follow-up, treatment, and diagnostic strategies differ considerably. As yet, no country has implemented a universal screening program for cCMV. Here, we summarize the issues, limitations, and application of diagnostic strategies for transplant recipients and congenital infection, including examples of screening programs for congenital HCMV that have been implemented at several centers in Japan, Italy, and the United States.

Cytomegalovirus infection in pregnancy - An update

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a ubiquitous DNA virus with a global seroprevalence of 83 %. It is the most common pathogen causing teratogenic congenital infection. It is therefore a major public health concern. Maternal infection is associated with congenital CMV (cCMV), the leading cause of non-genetic sensorineural hearing loss. cCMV also causes impairment of cognitive development and cerebral palsy. Transmission of CMV occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids such as saliva, urine or semen from someone who is actively shedding the virus. Transmission rates are higher after primary infection with the rate of transmission increasing with gestational age. Severe fetal effects are however more common when infection occurs before 20weeks. Past infection does not confer immunity to mother or protect the fetus. cCMV may present with cerebral or extracerebral abnormalities on ultrasound, fetal growth restriction and fetal loss. Diagnosis of primary maternal CMV in pregnancy should be based on seroconversion in pregnancy (de novo appearance of virus-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) in the serum of pregnant women who were previously seronegative) or on detection of specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgG antibodies in association with low IgG avidity. Prenatal diagnosis of fetal CMV is imperfect and based on amniocentesis performed at least 8 weeks after presumed maternal infection and after 17 weeks of gestation. Hygiene information and education of pregnant women is currently the most effective strategy for prevention of CMV infection. The role of vaccines, antiviral drugs and immunoglobulins remains unproven.

Valaciclovir to prevent vertical transmission of cytomegalovirus after maternal primary infection during pregnancy: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus is a common congenital infection, with high morbidity after an early primary maternal infection. No effective means exist to prevent viral transmission to the fetus. We aimed to investigate whether valaciclovir can prevent vertical transmission of cytomegalovirus to the fetus in pregnant women with a primary infection acquired early in pregnancy.

METHODS

This prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was done at the Infectious Feto-Maternal Clinic of Rabin Medical Center (Petach Tikvah, Israel). Pregnant women aged 18 years or older, with serological evidence of a primary cytomegalovirus infection acquired either periconceptionally or during the first trimester of pregnancy, were randomly assigned to oral valaciclovir (8 g per day, twice daily) or placebo from enrolment until amniocentesis at 21 or 22 gestational weeks. Randomisation was done separately for participants infected periconceptionally or during the first trimester and was done in blocks of four. Patients and researchers were masked to participant allocation throughout the entire study period. The primary endpoint was the rate of vertical transmission of cytomegalovirus. Statistical analyses were done according to per-protocol principles. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02351102.

FINDINGS

Between Nov 15, 2015, and Oct 8, 2018, we enrolled and randomly assigned 100 patients to receive valaciclovir or placebo. Ten patients were excluded, five from each study group; therefore, the final analysis included 45 patients (all singletons) in the valaciclovir group and 45 patients (43 singletons and two sets of twins) in the placebo group. In the valaciclovir group, including both first trimester and periconceptional infections, five (11%) of 45 amniocenteses were positive for cytomegalovirus, compared with 14 (30%) of 47 amniocenteses in the placebo group (p=0·027; odds ratio 0·29, 95% CI 0·09-0·90 for vertical cytomegalovirus transmission). Among participants with a primary cytomegalovirus infection during the first trimester, a positive amniocentesis for cytomegalovirus was significantly less likely in the valaciclovir group (two [11%] of 19 amniocenteses) compared with the placebo group (11 [48%] of 23 amniocenteses; p=0·020. No clinically significant adverse events were reported.

INTERPRETATION

Valaciclovir is effective in reducing the rate of fetal cytomegalovirus infection after maternal primary infection acquired early in pregnancy. Early treatment of pregnant women with primary infection might prevent termination of pregnancies or delivery of infants with congenital cytomegalovirus.

FUNDING

None.

Cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy: state of the science

Cytomegalovirus is the most common congenital infection, affecting 0.5-2% of all live births and the main nongenetic cause of congenital sensorineural hearing loss and neurological damage. Congenital cytomegalovirus can follow maternal primary infection or nonprimary infection. Sensorineurological morbidity is confined to the first trimester with up to 40-50% of infected neonates developing sequelae after first-trimester primary infection. Serological testing before 14 weeks is critical to identify primary infection within 3 months around conception but is not informative in women already immune before pregnancy. In Europe and the United States, primary infection in the first trimester are mainly seen in young parous women with a previous child younger than 3 years. Congenital cytomegalovirus should be evoked on prenatal ultrasound when the fetus is small for gestation and shows echogenic bowel, effusions, or any cerebral anomaly. Although the sensitivity of routine ultrasound in predicting neonatal symptoms is around 25%, serial targeted ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging of known infected fetuses show greater than 95% sensitivity for brain anomalies. Fetal diagnosis is done by amniocentesis from 17 weeks. Prevention consists of both parents avoiding contact with body fluids from infected individuals, especially toddlers, from before conception until 14 weeks. Candidate vaccines failed to provide more than 75% protection for >2 years in preventing cytomegalovirus infection. Medical therapies such as cytomegalovirus hyperimmune globulins aim to reduce the risk of vertical transmission but 2 randomized controlled trials have not found any benefit. Valaciclovir given from the diagnosis of primary infection up to amniocentesis decreased vertical transmission rates from 29.8% to 11.1% in the treatment group in a randomized controlled trial of 90 pregnant women. In a phase II open-label trial, oral valaciclovir (8 g/d) given to pregnant women with a mildly symptomatic fetus was associated with a higher chance of delivering an asymptomatic neonate (82%), compared with an untreated historical cohort (43%). Valganciclovir given to symptomatic neonates is likely to improve hearing and neurological symptoms, the extent of which and the duration of treatment are still debated. In conclusion, congenital cytomegalovirus infection is a public health challenge. In view of recent knowledge on diagnosis and pre- and postnatal management, health care providers should reevaluate screening programs in early pregnancy and at birth.

Fetal and maternal outcome after hyperimmunoglobulin administration for prevention of maternal-fetal transmission of cytomegalovirus during pregnancy: retrospective cohort analysis

Purpose

To determine the frequency of fetal infection as well as adverse pregnancy outcomes following antenatal hyperimmunoglobulin (HIG) treatment for primary cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in pregnancy.

Methods

In our observational cohort study, data from 46 women with a primary CMV infection during pregnancy were evaluated. Primary CMV infection was defined by seroconversion or the presence of CMV-IgM and low CMV-IgG avidity. All women received at least two or more infusions of HIG treatment (200 IU/kg). Congenital CMV infection (cCMV) was diagnosed by detection of CMV in amniotic fluid and/or neonatal urine. We compared the rate of maternal–fetal transmission from our cohort to data without treatment in the literature. The frequency of adverse pregnancy outcomes was compared to those of live-born infants delivered in our clinic.

Results

We detected 11 intrauterine infections in our cohort, which correlates to a transmission rate of 23.9%. Compared to the transmission rate found in cases without treatment (39.9%), this is a significant reduction (P = 0.026). There were no adverse pregnancy outcomes in our cohort. The mean gestational age at delivery was 39 weeks gestation in treatment and control group.

Conclusion

The administration of HIG for prevention of maternal–fetal CMV transmission during pregnancy seems safe and effective.

Hygiene promotion might be better than serological screening to deal with Cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy: a methodological appraisal and decision analysis

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus infection is the most frequent viral congenital infection, with possible consequences such as deafness, or psychomotor retardation. In 2016, the French High Council of Public Health was mandated to update recommendations regarding prevention of cytomegalovirus infection in pregnant women. We summarize a critical appraisal of knowledge and deterministic decision analysis comparing the current no-screening situation to serological screening during pregnancy, and to hygiene promotion.

METHODS

Screening was defined as systematic serological testing, during the first trimester, with repeated tests as needed, to all pregnant women. Outcomes were: 1) severe sequela: intellectual deficiency with IQ ≤ 50 or hearing impairment < 70 dB or sight impairment (≤ 3/10 at best eye); 2) moderate sequela: any level of intellectual, hearing or sight deficiency; and 3) death or termination of pregnancy. We simulated the one-year course of cytomegalovirus infection in a cohort of 800,000 pregnant women. We developed a deterministic decision model, using best and min-max estimates, extracted from systematic reviews or original studies.

RESULTS

Relevant data were scarce or imprecise. We estimated that 4352 maternal primary infections would result in 1741 foetal infections, and an unknown number of maternal reinfections would result in 1699 foetal infections. There would be 788 cytomegalovirus-related consequences, including 316 foetal deaths or terminations of pregnancy, and 424 moderate and 48 severe sequelae. Screening would result in a 1.66-fold increase of poor outcomes, mostly related to a 2.93-fold increase in deaths and terminations of pregnancy, not compensated by the decrease in severe symptomatic newborns. The promotion of hygiene would result in a 0.75-fold decrease of poor outcomes, related to both a decrease in severe sequelae among symptomatic newborns (RR = 0.75; min-max: 1.00-0.68), and in deaths and terminations of pregnancy (RR = 0.75; min-max: 0.97-0.68).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevention of cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy should promote hygiene; serological screening should not be recommended.

Treatment of congenital cytomegalovirus beyond the neonatal period: an observational study

Recently, valganciclovir treatment of symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) disease, commenced during the neonatal period (≤ 4 weeks), was found to improve hearing and developmental outcome. However, many children (symptomatic or asymptomatic at birth) present only after 4 weeks of age. The purpose of this observational retrospective study was to describe the outcome and safety of valganciclovir therapy in infants with cCMV who started treatment > 4 weeks of life. Of the 91children who started antiviral treatment > 4 weeks of age, 66/298 (22.2%) were symptomatic at birth; 25/217 (11.5%) were asymptomatic at birth. Treatment was initiated on average at 14 weeks of age (range 5-77 weeks) and at 53.3 weeks (range 12-156 weeks), respectively. Of the 45 affected ears in the symptomatic group, 30 (66.7%) improved and only 2 (4.4%) deteriorated, with most of the improved ears (27/30, 90%) returning to normal. In the asymptomatic group, late-onset treatment was initiated and out of the 42 deteriorated ears, 38 (90.5%) improved after at least 1 year of follow-up. Hematological adverse events, i.e., neutropenia, were noted in a minority of cases (4.4%).Conclusion: Our study demonstrates the benefits and safety aspects of treating symptomatic and asymptomatic children with cCMV even beyond the recommended neonatal period.What is Known:• Valganciclovir treatment of symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) disease, commenced during the neonatal period, is beneficial in improving hearing and developmental outcome.• However, data of treatment started beyond the neonatal period is lacking.What is New:• Our study demonstrates the benefits of treating symptomatic children with cCMV as well as asymptomatic children that develop late-onset hearing loss even beyond the recommended neonatal period.• This was true for symptomatic children who presented > 4 weeks as well as to those were asymptomatic at birth but experienced late hearing deterioration.

Valacyclovir in primary maternal CMV infection for prevention of vertical transmission: A case-series

BACKGROUND

No treatment is currently approved for cytomegalovirus infection in pregnancy. Valacyclovir has been studied in symptomatic cytomegalovirus infected fetuses and seems to reduce the risk of serious sequelae.

OBJECTIVES

We used off-label valacyclovir on pregnant women with primary cytomegalovirus infection to reduce the risk of fetal infection.

STUDY DESIGN

We treated 12 pregnant women with 8 g/day valacyclovir after diagnosis of cytomegalovirus infection until amniocentesis. We continued treatment until delivery in case of fetal infection. We periodically performed serology and virology tests on the women from referral until delivery and monitored them for adverse effects while on treatment. All women underwent late amniocentesis. We followed up infants for 5-28 months.

RESULTS

At the time of amniocentesis, we observed a transmission rate of 17 %, and at birth we observed a transmission rate of 42 %. Two women with negative amniocentesis and infected newborns had viremia reactivation after valacyclovir discontinuation. We observed no symptomatic infections at birth and one isolated sensory-neural hearing loss at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first series of antiviral treatment in women with a diagnosis of cytomegalovirus infection before amniocentesis. Valacyclovir may control cytomegalovirus infection while it is administered and reduce transmission at amniocentesis. Late transmission after treatment discontinuation is a risk. We advocate the need for a controlled trial of valacyclovir therapy starting from diagnosis of maternal infection until delivery, regardless of prenatal diagnosis of infection.

The MRI spectrum of congenital cytomegalovirus infection

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an ubiquitous pathogen, with a high worldwide seroprevalence. When acquired in the prenatal period, congenital CMV (cCMV) is a major cause of neurodevelopmental sequelae and hearing loss. cCMV remains an underdiagnosed condition, with no systematic screening implemented in pregnancy or in the postnatal period. Therefore, imaging takes a prominent role in prenatal diagnosis of cCMV. With the prospect of new viable therapies, accurate and timely diagnosis becomes paramount, as well as identification of fetuses at risk for neurodevelopmental sequelae. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a complementary method to ultrasound (US) in fetal brain and body imaging. Anterior temporal lobe lesions are the most specific finding, and MRI is superior to US in their detection. Other findings such as ventriculomegaly, cortical malformations and calcifications, as well as hepatosplenomegaly, liver signal changes and abnormal effusions are unspecific. However, when seen in combination these should raise the suspicion of fetal infection, highlighting the need for a full fetal assessment. Still, some fetuses deemed normal on prenatal imaging are symptomatic at birth or develop delayed cCMV-associated symptoms, leaving room for improvement of diagnostic tools. Advanced MR sequences may help in this field and in determining prognosis, but further studies are needed.

Maternal infections

Congenital infections are infections transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy (transplacentally) or delivery (peripartum). They have the potential to adversely affect fetal development and long-term neurodevelopmental outcome through inflammatory, destructive, developmental, or teratogenic lesions of the brain. Because the fetal/neonatal brain has a limited capacity to respond to injury, early inflammatory changes may be difficult to visualize and only manifest as neurocognitive disability later in life. Teratogenic effects, which may include aberrations of neuronal proliferation and migration, are more easily visible on imaging, but may be equally difficult to use to predict long-term neurocognitive outcomes. This chapter reviews the general pathophysiology of congenital infection and describes the epidemiology, the antenatal and postnatal diagnosis, and the treatment of congenital infections as well as the long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes.

The Current Status of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Prevalence in the MENA Region: A Systematic Review

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a highly prevalent herpesvirus worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), CMV infects people of all ages, and by the age of five, approximately one-third of children in the United States are infected. Although the infection is generally asymptomatic, it can cause severe disease in immunocompromised patients, transplant and transfusion recipients, as well as newborn neonates. The objective of this study is to systematically review published literature on CMV in the MENA region to estimate its incidence in the region and describe its epidemiological and clinical significance. The literature was searched through four scientific databases: PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science. A total of 72 studies from 11 countries satisfied the inclusion criteria, covering a period from 1988-2019. The CMV IgG seroprevalence ranged from 8.7%-99.2% (SD = 38.95%). CMV incidence in these countries ranged between 1.22% and 77% in transplant and transfusion recipients, with an increase in incidence with advanced age. However, the incidence rate was unclear for congenital CMV due to the variability of the reporting. This review highlights the need for more robust and well-designed studies to better estimate CMV incidence in the MENA region, standardize diagnostic criteria, and consider prophylactic and pre-emptive treatments to limit the morbidity and mortality of the disease.

Antenatal treatment options for primary cytomegalovirus infections

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is by far the most common fetal viral infection. It carries a risk of long-term sequelae for the neonate; though the severity depends on the gestational age at the time of infection. Improvement in primary prevention of a CMV infection during pregnancy can be achieved by providing information regarding hygiene to the mother. Once a maternal infection occurs, treatment options include prevention of maternal-fetal transmission and, once transmission occurs, attempts to reduce the severity of its effect on the fetus.

RECENT FINDINGS

Several recent studies have shown that providing detailed information regarding the effects of CMV on the fetus and providing common sense hygiene advice reduced new primary infections by more than 75%. In cases with a documented maternal primary CMV infection, treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins have been tried to reduce maternal fetal transmission with a variable degree of success. In the randomized controlled study of Revello et al., immunoglobulins did not reduce the transmission rate. In a recent study, immunoglobulins were given only to women with very recent first trimester infections. In this study, the transmission rate was 2.5%, which is significantly less than expected. Leruez-Ville et al. treated mothers with known transmission of CMV to the fetus with 8 g of valaciclovir daily. They observed a significant reduction in the number of neonatal symptoms in the treated cases.

SUMMARY

Protocols are available to prevent primary CMV infections during pregnancy and, in cases where an infection does occur, steps can be taken to reduce its effect on the fetus thereby reducing the chance of long-term sequelae.

Splenic artery blood flow as a potential marker for materno-fetal transmission of a primary CMV infection

OBJECTIVE

To examine the blood flow in the splenic artery as marker for materno-fetal transmission at about 20 weeks following a maternal first-trimester primary CMV infection.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study at the prenatal medicine unit at University of Tuebingen, Germany. Women were included who underwent an amniocentesis to examine the fetal infection status following a maternal primary CMV infection in the first trimester. In all cases, amniocentesis was done at about 20 weeks and at least 6 weeks after the maternal infection. As part of the detailed ultrasound examination prior to each amniocentesis, we examined the peak systolic velocity flow (PSV) and the pulsatility index (PI) of the splenic artery. Measurements were transformed into MoMs according to the normal curves of Ebbing et al. RESULTS: 81 Women fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Maternal and gestational age was 31.9 years and 20.6 weeks' gestation. Maternal-fetal transmission occurred in 13 of the cases. In fetuses without and with a CMV infection, mean PI was 0.98 MoM and 0.89 (p = 0.081). Mean PSV was significantly higher in the group of infected fetuses than in those without (1.24 vs. 0.94 MoM, p = 0.026).

CONCLUSION

The PSV may be a marker for maternal-fetal CMV transmission following a first-trimester maternal infection.

Prevention of maternal-fetal transmission of cytomegalovirus after primary maternal infection in the first trimester by biweekly hyperimmunoglobulin administration

OBJECTIVE

To examine the efficacy of biweekly hyperimmunoglobulin (HIG) administration to prevent maternal-fetal transmission of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in women with primary first-trimester CMV infection.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study of women with confirmed primary CMV infection in the first trimester who had the first HIG administration at or before 14 weeks' gestation. All women had biweekly HIG treatment until 20 weeks' gestation at a dose of 200 IU/kg of maternal body weight. Each subject underwent amniocentesis at least 6 weeks after first presentation at about 20 weeks. Primary outcome was maternal-fetal transmission at the time of amniocentesis, and secondary outcome was the frequency of congenital CMV infection at birth. The results were compared with a historic cohort of women with first-trimester CMV infection who did not undergo HIG treatment and who had amniocentesis at about 20 weeks.

RESULTS

Subjects were 40 pregnant women with a primary CMV infection, with a median gestational age at first presentation of 9.6 (range, 5.1-14.3) weeks. On average, HIG administration started at 11.1 weeks and continued until 16.6 weeks. Within this interval, HIG was administered between two and six times in each patient. While CMV immunoglobulin-G (IgG) monitoring showed periodic fluctuations during biweekly HIG administration cycles, high CMV-IgG avidity indices remained stable over the whole treatment period. Maternal-fetal transmission before amniocentesis occurred in only one of the 40 cases (2.5% (95% CI, 0-13.2%)). At delivery, two additional subjects were found to have had late-gestation transmission. Considering all three cases with maternal-fetal transmission, the transmission rate was 7.5% (95% CI, 1.6-20.4%) in our 40 cases. All infected neonates were asymptomatic at birth. The matched historical control group consisted of 108 pregnancies. Thirty-eight transmissions (35.2% (95% CI, 26.2-45.0%)) occurred in the control group, which was significantly higher (P < 0.0001) than the transmission rate in the HIG treatment group.

CONCLUSION

After a primary maternal CMV infection in the first trimester, biweekly HIG administration at a dose of 200 IU/kg prevents maternal-fetal transmission up to 20 weeks' gestation. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Hematologic Adverse Events Associated With Prolonged Valganciclovir Treatment in Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection

BACKGROUND

Valganciclovir (2/d) therapy for 6 months in neonates with symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection improves hearing and neurodevelopmental outcome. The only reported adverse event was neutropenia. Since 2009, our protocol for symptomatic cCMV infection was a 1-year treatment of 2/d for the first 3 months followed by 9 months of 1/d.

METHODS

A retrospective study. Infants with cCMV treated with valganciclovir for 1 year were recruited. Data of drug-related hematologic adverse events were collected.

RESULTS

One hundred sixty infants were eligible; 46 (28.8%) had experienced at least 1 episode of neutropenia (58 episodes), the majority (39/46, 84.8%) during the first 3 months of treatment and 7 (15.2%) during the last 9 months of treatment. Grades 3 and 4 neutropenia occurred in 9 (5.6%) children, almost exclusively during the first 3 months of treatment. Anemia (hemoglobin <9 g/dL) was recorded in 12 (7.5%) children during the first 3 months of 2/d treatment. Four children presented with hemoglobin levels <7 g/dL and needed a blood transfusion. One child was diagnosed with transient pure red cell aplasia. No long-term adverse events were recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

Although prolonged valganciclovir treatment for cCMV is safe, a close monitoring of the white blood cell count and hemoglobin levels is warranted. Much lower rates of grades 3 and 4 neutropenia were observed than previously reported, probably owing to our unique treatment protocol. Nevertheless, drug-induced anemia should be of primary concern. The optimal protocol assessing clinical outcome, concurrently with potential side effects, has not yet been determined.

Comparison of quantitative real-time PCR and short-term (18-hour) microculture in diagnosis of fetal cytomegalovirus infection: Impact of hyperimmunoglobulin treatment

OBJECTIVE

The prognostic value of human cytomegalovirus detection (HCMV) DNA levels from amniotic fluid (AF) for the outcome of the infected newborn is still a matter of debate, especially if the onset of maternal primary infection at amniocentesis is unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the analytical performance in short-term (18-hour) microculture from preconcentrated samples and quantitative real-time PCR (rtPCR) for diagnosis of fetal HCMV infection.

METHODS

A retrospective diagnostic study was conducted on 51 AF samples taken from women that transmitted HCMV prenatally. Amniocentesis was performed around 22-week gestation. The samples were tested for HCMV viral load via quantitative rtPCR and additionally with quantitative short-term (18-hour) microculture following preconcentration via a 50 000 g centrifugation step prior to inoculation to fibroblast monolayers.

RESULTS

Both methods show correlating results (ρ = 0.903). In 25 samples, the women received intravenous hyperimmunoglobulin prior to amniocentesis resulting in a lower correlation of both quantitative methods (ρ = 0.445), in reduced median copy numbers of HCMV DNA (P = .037) and reduced viral infectivity in short-term microculture (P = .025).

CONCLUSION

Both methods lead to correlating results using AF samples from HIG-naïve women. Human cytomegalovirus viral load and infectivity in cell culture are reduced in samples following maternal hyperimmunoglobulin treatment.

Maternal and fetal cytomegalovirus infection: diagnosis, management, and prevention

Congenital cytomegalovirus infection is a major cause of central nervous system and sensory impairments that affect cognition, motor function, hearing, language development, vestibular function, and vision. Although the importance of congenital cytomegalovirus infection is readily evident, the vast majority of maternal and fetal infections are not identified, even in developed countries. Multiple studies of prenatal cytomegalovirus infections have produced a body of knowledge that can inform the clinical approach to suspected or proven maternal and fetal infection. Reliable diagnosis of cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy and accurate diagnosis of fetal infection are a reality. Approaches to preventing the transmission of cytomegalovirus from mother to fetus and to the treatment of fetal infection are being studied. There is evidence that public health approaches based on hygiene can dramatically reduce the rate of primary maternal cytomegalovirus infections during pregnancy. This review will consider the epidemiology of congenital cytomegalovirus infection, the diagnosis and management of primary infection during pregnancy, and approaches to preventing maternal infection.

Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection After a Multiple Birth Pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection is an important cause of hearing loss and neurodevelopment delay. While data on vertical transmission and neonatal outcome after singleton pregnancy with cCMV are well established, only scarce reports have addressed cCMV in multiple birth pregnancies. Furthermore, no studies have yet compared the outcome after birth and long-term follow-up of children with cCMV born after a singleton versus multiple pregnancies.

METHODS

Infant outcome after birth of symptomatic versus asymptomatic infection was compared for infants born with cCMV after multiple (study group) and singleton (control group) pregnancies in a 1:2 ratio.

RESULTS

Of 508 infants diagnosed with cCMV, 25 (4.9%) were born after a multiple pregnancy. Children in the study and control groups did not differ in terms of specific prenatal CMV investigations including amniocentesis and brain magnetic resonance imaging studies. However, prematurity rates were significantly higher in the study compared with control group (52% vs. 4%, P < 0.001). There was a higher rate of symptomatic cCMV infection in the study group than in the controls (48% vs. 14%, P < 0.001). Hearing impairment at birth was also more frequent in the study group (32% vs. 8%, P = 0.016). A long-term follow-up demonstrated that children in the study group had higher rates of neurologic sequelae (hearing impairment or neurodevelopmental delay) compared with children in the control group (20% vs. 4%, P = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

Infants with cCMV born after multiple birth pregnancies are born earlier and have a higher risk of symptomatic disease at birth and worse long-term neurologic outcome than those born after a singleton pregnancy. This important group of children warrants meticulous prenatal and postnatal care.