Fetal ascites owing to congenital cytomegalovirus: response to ganciclovir

Authors: Basu, S.¹; Chandra, P.K.¹; Basu, S.²

Source: Annals of Tropical Paediatrics: International Child Health, Volume 28, Number 3, September 2008 , pp. 235-239(5)

Publisher: Maney Publishing

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Abstract:

A term newborn with severe congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is described. Fetal ascites was detected at 28 weeks gestation, and at birth there was tense ascites. There was intra-uterine growth retardation, microcephaly, chorioretinitis, jaundice, purpura and pneumonitis. Computed tomographic scan of the brain showed ventriculomegaly with periventricular calcifications. Serology was positive for cytomegalovirus-specific immunoglobulin M, and cytomegalovirus DNA was detected in the ascitic fluid and urine by nested polymerase chain reaction. He received 6 weeks of treatment with ganciclovir. Ascites resolved spontaneously and liver function tests became normal. Although there was a good clinical response to ganciclovir therapy without any side-effects, on follow-up the infant had global developmental delay and bilateral sensorineural deafness.

Document Type: Research Article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1179/146532808X335705

Affiliations: 1: Department of Paediatrics, North Bengal Medical College & Hospital, Sushrutnagar, Darjeeling, India 2: Department of Surgery, North Bengal Medical College & Hospital, Sushrutnagar, Darjeeling, India

Publication date: 2008-09-01

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