Severe cytomegalic inclusions disease in the fetus of a woman immunized before pregnancy
Boumahni, B.; Randrianaivo, H.; Laffitte, A.; Kauffmann, E.; Barau, G.; Fourmaintraux, A.
Journal de Gynecologie Obstetrique et Biologie de la Reproduction 32(8 Part 1): 745-747
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0368-2315 PMID: 15067900 Document Number: 555230
After detection of a fetal microcephaly at 24 weeks gestation, we performed an amniocentesis at 29 weeks with chromosomal and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) search for viral contamination. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection was confirmed by PCR although the mother had previously been tested as immunized for CMV prior to conception. Abortion was induced; the fetus presented clinical CMV injuries confirmed by positive tissue culture (liver, brain and lungs). Recent publications have reported similar observations with variable viral strains. These findings point out the importance attentive search for ultrasonographic signs suggestive of fetal CMV infection.