ABSTRACT
Most infants exposed to cytomegalovirus (CMV) in utero will not be symptomatic; however, infants born with symptomatic CMV will have more severe consequences and poorer prognosis than will asymptomatic infants. The timing of infection during pregnancy largely affects the expected outcomes and consequences to the fetus. It is possible for a fetus to acquire congenital CMV infection from a nonprimary infection, although this accounts for a small number of cases. The presence of microcephaly, intrauterine growth restriction, petechiae, encephalitis, hepatosplenomegaly, and deafness are some of the physical characteristics of a congenital CMV infection. Treatment options remain limited at this time, so no routine screening has been recommended. The need for a vaccine or preventative treatment has been identified as a priority in the United States.