Neurological Consequences of Cytomegalovirus Infection Information Page

Synonym(s):Giant Cell Inclusion Disease, Cytomegalovirus Infection, Salivary Gland Disease, Cytomegalic Inclusion Body Disease

What are Neurological Consequences of Cytomegalovirus Infection?

Cytomegalic inclusion body disease (CIBD) is caused by infection from the cytomegalic virus (CMV), a type of herpes virus that can lie dormant after initial infection and then reactivate periodically throughout life. The virus causes the cells of some organs to enlarge and swell with inclusion bodies - microscopic foreign particles. The virus can be transmitted through transplantation of infected organs or through the exchange of body fluids, such as blood, urine, saliva, breast milk, semen, and cervical secretions. CMV is common among populations with poor hygiene. Most children and adults who acquire the infection develop no symptoms. But some, especially those who are immune compromised, may develop serious symptoms, including fever, hepatitis, inflammation of the lungs and eyes, and/or a mononucleosis-like illness. In immune-compromised individuals such as AIDS patients and kidney and bone marrow transplant recipients, CMV infection can cause retinitis and encephalitis. Unborn babies and newborns may acquire CMV before or during birth from a mother with an active infection. The virus can cause stillbirth or premature birth or serious systemic problems in the newborn, including pneumonitis, bleeding, anemia, and liver damage, as well as neurological problems, such as seizures and developmental defects of the brain.

Is there any treatment?

There is no cure for CIBD. Antiviral drugs, such as ganciclovir and acyclovir, are used to reduce viral load or prevent infection in immune-compromised people. Physicians recommend good hygiene and thorough handwashing to prevent transmission of the disease.

What is the prognosis?

Most people infected with CMV show no symptoms and have a good outcome. However, CIBD can be lethal to unborn and newborn babies, transplant recipients, and those whose immune systems are compromised.

What research is being done?

The NINDS supports and conducts research on diseases that affect the brain and nervous system. Much of this research is aimed at learning more about these disorders and finding new ways to treat and prevent them.