Overview of Congenital Infections: The Prominence of Cytomegalovirus

Title: Overview of Congenital Infections: The Prominence of Cytomegalovirus

Volume: 11 Issue: 5

Author(s): Joseph B. Cantey and Pablo J. Sanchez

Affiliation:

Keywords: Cytomegalovirus, CMV, congenital infection, HIV, rubella, syphilis, toxoplasmosis, congenital syphilis, herpes simplex virus (HSV), Lyme disease, valganciclovir, Screening, newborns, Obstetricians

Abstract: Congenital infections are those that are acquired transplacentally by the fetus from an infected mother. They constitute a major public health burden, affecting millions of infants and children worldwide. Despite significant advances in medical diagnostics, the majority of newborns with congenital infections are not recognized, since many of these infections may not cause clinically - apparent disease in the newborn period. Nonetheless, these infections - whether they are apparent or silent - have the potential to adversely impact the neurodevelopmental outcomes of these vulnerable children.

Cite this article as:

B. Cantey Joseph and J. Sanchez Pablo, Overview of Congenital Infections: The Prominence of Cytomegalovirus, Infectious Disorders - Drug Targets 2011; 11 (5) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/187152611797636677