Isolated Ventriculomegaly and Cytomegalovirus Infection during Pregnancy: A Case Report and Diagnostic Challenges

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most frequent cause of congenital viral infection, associated with developmental delay, sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and fetal death. Primary infection during first trimester is associated with poor prognosis and a higher risk for neurological damage such as mental retardation, cerebral palsy or behavior spectrum disorders. Short interval between infection and ultrasound manifestations is a poor prognostic marker. CASE PRESENTATION The authors present a case of an acute cytomegalovirus infection with isolated ventriculomegaly, diagnosed at 16 gestational weeks. A review of the literature about screening and diagnostic challenges for CMV infection during pregnancy was done, emphasizing the bad prognosis in cases with early primary infection and the need for regular screening programs and prevention. CONCLUSION Screening for anti CMV IgM / IgG and IgG avidity in all pregnant women could be recommended to identify risk groups and improve diagnostic capabilities.