Cytomegalovirus what kind of infection in women. Symptoms and treatment of cytomegalovirus infection in women. What is this infection

What it is? Cytomegalovirus is a genus of viruses in the herpesvirus family. This virus is quite common; today cytomegalovirus antibodies can be found in about 10-15% of adolescents, and in 40% of adults. Below, we will give a complete description of this disease, as well as consider the causes, symptoms and methods of treatment for cytomegalovirus.

Causes and ways of infection with cytomegalovirus

Cytomegalovirus (from the Latin Cytomegalovirus) is actually a relative of herpes simplex, because it is part of the herpesvirus group, which, in addition to herpes and cytomegalovirus, also includes two diseases such as infectious mononucleosis and.

The presence of cytomegalovirus is noted in blood, semen, urine, vaginal mucus, as well as in tears, which determines the possibility of infection by it through close contact with these types of biological fluids.

How does the infection take place? Infection with cytomegalovirus can occur:

• when using contaminated items,
• with blood transfusion and even airborne droplets,
• as well as during sexual intercourse,
• during childbirth and pregnancy.

This virus is also found in blood, saliva, cervical secretions, semen and breast milk.

If a person has already become infected with cytomegalovirus, then he becomes its carrier for life.

Unfortunately, it is far from immediately possible to recognize the presence of cytomegalovirus - this disease has an incubation period that can last up to 60 days. During this period, the disease may not manifest itself in any way, but after that, there will definitely be an unexpected and sharp outbreak, which in most cases can be provoked by stress, hypothermia or a general decrease in the immune system.

Once in the blood, cytomegalovirus causes a pronounced immune response, manifested in the production of protective protein antibodies - immunoglobulins M and G (IgM and IgG) and an antiviral cellular reaction - the formation of CD 4 and CD 8 lymphocytes.

People with normal immune systems may be infected with cytomegalovirus and not be aware of it, since the immune system will keep the virus in a suppressed state, therefore, the disease will be asymptomatic without causing harm. In rare cases, in people with normal immunity, cytomegalovirus can cause mononucleosis-like syndrome.

In people with weak or weakened immunity (HIV-infected, sick oncological diseases etc.) cytomegalovirus causes serious illnesses, a defeat occurs:

• eye,
• lungs
• brain and digestive system,
• which ultimately leads to death.

Cytomegalovirus is most dangerous in only two cases. These are people with weakened immunity and children who were infected while the fetus was in the womb, who contracted the virus during pregnancy.

Symptoms of cytomegalovirus in women

In women, symptoms of cytomegalovirus will appear depending on the form of the disease. The disease begins with an incubation period of 20-60 days. At this time, the pathogen actively reproduces in the cells, and there are no signs of the disease.

If a woman's immunity is not weakened, then no symptoms of the disease will be observed. In some cases, a woman may be bothered by:

• signs resembling a flu-like condition
• a slight increase in temperature up to 37.1 ° С,
• weakness,
• slight discomfort.

Signs in men

Dwelling on the symptoms of cytomegalovirus in men, the following manifestations can be distinguished:

• temperature increase;
• chills;
• headache;
• swelling of the mucous membranes and nose;
• enlarged lymph nodes;
• runny nose;
• skin rash;
• inflammatory diseases that occur in the joints.

As you can see, the listed manifestations are similar to the manifestations observed in acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections. Meanwhile, it is important to take into account that the symptoms of the disease appear only after 1-2 months from the moment of infection, that is, after the end of the incubation period.

Diagnostics

We found out what cytomegalovirus is, and now let's find out how the disease is diagnosed. To diagnose sexually transmitted infections (STIs), methods based on the detection of a virus in the body are used, causing the disease... However, this is not the case with this disease. After all, it can be detected with the help of a special study of blood, urine, saliva, smears, sperm and scrapings, which are taken from the genitals during initial infection or during an exacerbation of an infection.

1. For the purpose of diagnostics, a laboratory determination in the blood of specific antibodies to cytomegalovirus - immunoglobulins M and G. The presence of immunoglobulins M may indicate primary infection with cytomegalovirus or the reactivation of chronic cytomegalovirus infection... Determination of high titers of IgM in pregnant women may threaten the infection of the fetus. An increase in IgM is detected in the blood 4-7 weeks after infection with cytomegalovirus and is observed for 16-20 weeks.
2. An increase in immunoglobulins G develops during the period of attenuation of the activity of cytomegalovirus infection. Their presence in the blood indicates the presence of cytomegalovirus in the body, but does not reflect the activity of the infectious process.
3. To determine the DNA of cytomegalovirus in blood cells and mucous membranes (in materials of scrapings from the urethra and cervical canal, in sputum, saliva, etc.), the method of PCR diagnostics (polymerase chain reaction) is used. Particularly informative is quantitative PCR, which gives an idea of ​​the activity of cytomegalovirus and the infectious process it causes.
4. The diagnosis of cytomegalovirus infection is based on the isolation of cytomegalovirus in clinical material or with a fourfold increase in antibody titer.

It is worth noting that it is advisable to take tests for cytomegalovirus for women who are planning a pregnancy. And it is also necessary to pass a similar analysis to those people who very often get colds, since a cold can be a manifestation of this infection.

It is necessary to treat cytomegalovirus infection in a comprehensive manner, therapeutic therapy should include funds that are directly aimed at combating the virus, at the same time, these funds should increase the protective functions of the body and strengthen the immune system. At present, no such remedy has yet been invented that could completely cure cytomegalovirus, it remains in the body forever.

The main goal of treating cytomegalovirus is to suppress its activity.... People who are carriers of this virus need to adhere to healthy way life, eat well, and consume necessary for the body the amount of vitamins.

Due to the fact that in the overwhelming majority of cases the body itself is able to cope with cytomegalovirus, the treatment of an infection associated with it is most often limited to weakening the symptoms and reducing the suffering of the patient.

To reduce the temperature characteristic of almost all forms of cytomegalovirus infection, ordinary Paracetamol is used. Aspirin is not recommended for use in view of the possible side effects associated with the viral nature of the disease.

It is also very important for carriers of this disease to maintain a normal and correct image life, which provides a person with the right amount fresh air, balanced diet, movement and all factors that strengthen the immune system.

In addition, there are a large number of immunomodulatory drugs that are prescribed to strengthen the immune system. In general, treatment with immunomodulators can last for several weeks, and only a doctor prescribes such treatment. It should be noted that such treatment is possible if cytomegalovirus is latent, therefore these drugs are used for prevention, but not for treatment.

Prophylaxis

It is worth noting that cytomegalovirus is the most dangerous during primary infection, therefore, it is necessary to take all precautions in contact with already infected people and on the prevention of this infection. And especially such caution is very important for pregnant women who are not carriers of cytomegalovirus. Therefore, to protect their health and the health of the baby, pregnant women need to give up casual sex.

Prevention of cytomegalovirus for everyone else is reduced to the observance of basic rules of personal and sexual hygiene.

1. You should not enter into new intimate contacts without a condom: this advice from doctors is being repeated more and more often and is more relevant than ever.
2. When communicating with casual acquaintances, you should not use washing utensils and dishes alone, you must keep yourself and your home clean, wash your hands thoroughly after contact with money and other objects that other people were holding in their hands.

In addition, it is very important to work on strengthening immunity, since a healthy immune system, even if cytomegalovirus accidentally enters the body, will prevent the development of acute cytomegalovirus infection.

Anna Mironova

Reading time: 10 minutes

A A

V modern society the problem of viral infections is becoming more and more urgent. Among them, the most relevant is cytomegalovirus. This disease was discovered quite recently and is still poorly understood. Today we will tell you how dangerous it is.

Cytomegalovirus - what is it? Features of the development of cytomegalovirus infection, transmission routes

Cytomegalovirus is a virus that, by its structure and nature resembles herpes ... It lives in the cells of the human body. This disease is not curable, if you become infected with it, then it for life remain in your body.
The immune system of a healthy person may well keep this virus under control and prevent it from multiplying. But, when defenses start to wane b, cytomegalovirus is activated and begins to develop. It penetrates into human cells, as a result of which they begin to grow incredibly quickly in size.
This viral infection is quite common. Person may be a carrier of cytomegalovirus infection and not even suspect about it. According to medical research, 15% of adolescents and 50% of adults have antibodies to this virus in their bodies. Some sources report that about 80% of women are carriers of this disease, this infection in them can occur in asymptomatic or asymptomatic form.
Not all carriers of this infection are sick. After all, cytomegalovirus can be in the human body for many years and at the same time absolutely not manifest itself in any way. As a rule, the activation of this latent infection occurs with a weakened immunity. So, for pregnant women, cancer patients, people who have undergone transplantation of any organs, HIV-infected , cytomegalovirus is a threatening danger.
Cytomegalovirus infection is not a highly contagious disease. Infection can occur through close long-term contact with carriers of the disease.

The main routes of transmission of cytomegalovirus

• Sexual route: during sexual intercourse through vaginal or cervical mucus, semen;
• Airborne droplet: while sneezing, kissing, talking, coughing, etc.;
• Blood transfusion route: with transfusion of leukocyte mass or blood;
• Transplacental pathway: from mother to fetus during pregnancy.

Symptoms of cytomegalovirus in men and women

In adults and children, acquired cytomegalovirus infection occurs in the form mononucleosis-like syndrome. The clinical symptoms of this disease are rather difficult to distinguish from the usual infectious mononucleosis, which is caused by other viruses, namely the Ebstein-Barr virus. However, if you are infected with cytomegalovirus for the first time, then the disease may be completely asymptomatic. But with its re-activation, pronounced clinical symptoms may already appear.
Incubation period cytomegalovirus infection is from 20 to 60 days .

The main symptoms of cytomegalovirus

• Severe malaise and fatigue;
• High body temperature , which is quite difficult to knock down;
• Joint pain, muscle pain, headache;
• Enlarged lymph nodes;
• Sore throat;
• Loss of appetite and weight loss;
• Skin rash, somewhat similar to chickenpox, it appears quite rarely.

However, relying only on these symptoms, the diagnosis is quite difficult to make , since they are not specific (they are also found in other diseases) and disappear rather quickly.

Complications of cytomegalovirus infection in women and men

CMV infection causes severe complications in patients with poor immune systems. The risk group includes HIV-infected, cancer patients, people who have undergone organ transplantation. For example, for AIDS patients, this infection is one of the main causes of death.
But serious complications cytomegalovirus infection can also cause in women, men with normal immune systems:

• Intestinal diseases: abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in stools, intestinal inflammation;
• Pulmonary diseases: segmental pneumonia, pleurisy;
• Liver disease: increased liver enzymes, hapatitis;
• Neurological diseases: are quite rare. The most dangerous thing is encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
• Particular danger CMV infection is for pregnant women... In the early days of pregnancy, it can lead to fetal death ... If a newborn is infected, the infection can cause serious nervous system damage.

Effective treatment of cytomegalovirus

On the the present stage medical development, cytomegalovirus not completely treated ... With help medications you can only transfer the virus to the passive phase and prevent it from actively developing. The most important thing is to prevent the mobilization of the virus. Its activity should be monitored with special attention:

• Pregnant women. According to statistics, every fourth pregnant woman is faced with this disease. Timely diagnosis and prevention will help prevent the development of infection and protect the child from complications;
• Men and women with frequent outbreaks of herpes;
• People with reduced immunity;
• People with immunodeficiency. For them, the disease can be fatal.

Treatment of this disease should be comprehensively : Directly fighting the virus and strengthening the immune system. Most often, the following antiviral drugs are prescribed for the treatment of CMV infection:
Ganciclovir, 250 mg, taken twice a day, course of treatment 21 days;
Valacyclovir, 500 mg, taken 2 times a day, full course of treatment 20 days;
Famciclovir, 250 mg, taken 3 times a day, the course of treatment is 14 to 21 days;
Acyclovir, 250 mg taken 2 times a day for 20 days.

The cost of drugs for the treatment of cytomegalovirus infection

Ganciclovir (Tsemeven) - 1300-1600 rubles;
Valacyclovir - 500-700 rubles;
Famciclovir (Famvir) - 4200-4400 rubles;
Acyclovir - 150-200 rubles.

The site warns: self-medication can harm your health! All the tips presented are for reference, but they should only be used as directed by a doctor!

What do you know about cytomegalovirus? Comments from forums

Lina:
When I was diagnosed with CMV, the doctor prescribed different drugs: both antiviral and strong immunomodulators. But nothing helped, the tests only worsened. Then I managed to get an appointment with the best infectious disease specialist in our city. Clever guy. He told me that there is no need to treat such infections at all, but only to observe, because under the influence of drugs they can become even more aggravated.

Tanya:
Cytomegalovirus is present in 95% of the world's population, but it does not manifest itself in any way. Therefore, if you have been diagnosed with a similar diagnosis, do not bother too much, just work to strengthen your immunity.

Lisa:
And during the tests, they found antibodies to CMV infection. The doctor said that this means that I had this disease, but the body healed from it on its own. Therefore, I advise you not to worry strongly about this. This disease is quite common.

Katia:
I went to the doctor today, and specifically asked a question on this topic, because I had heard enough of various horror stories about this disease. The doctor told me that if you were infected with CMV before pregnancy, then there is no threat to your health and your baby.

Cytomegalovirus is common in women, but symptoms only appear under certain circumstances, such as immunodeficiency or pregnancy. The virus is not dangerous to health, however, against the background of reduced immunity, serious consequences can appear.

Cytomegalovirus - what does it mean?

Infection with cytomegalovirus infection occurs through biological fluids

If a woman has high immunity, then the cytomegalovirus is in remission, does not manifest itself in any way. It can be discovered by accident while undergoing examination for another medical condition. But as soon as the body's defenses are reduced, cytomegalovirus is activated.

How is it transmitted?

Ways of transmission of the virus:

• with unprotected sexual intercourse;
• during a kiss through saliva;
• from mother to child during the period breastfeeding together with breast milk;
• in the process of labor;
• intrauterine infection;
• contact and household method of transmission of the virus.

The latter path involves infection after contact with objects that contain the patient's saliva. Of course, this infection is more typical for children. preschool age as they pull dirty hands into their mouths.

The virus is contained in the biological fluids of a woman, it can cross the placental barrier, therefore, it threatens pregnancy and the health of the baby. Infection occurs only through close physical contact. It is impossible to get infected after communicating with a patient, the virus is not transmitted by airborne droplets.

Infection occurs asymptomatically, rarely, the patient may experience increased body temperature, chills, sore throat, muscle pain. Symptoms resemble ARVI, so it's hard to guess about cytomegalovirus.

Symptoms of cytomegalovirus in women may appear while taking immunosuppressive drugs

After infection, the virus remains asymptomatic for a long time. The appearance of the first signs is associated with a decrease in immune defense or other severe pathologies. Symptoms are similar to infectious mononucleosis or ARVI, recovery occurs after 2-6 weeks, depending on immunity.

The symptoms of the disease are as follows:

• an increase in body temperature up to 38 ˚С;
• headache;
• discharge from the nose;
• fast fatiguability;
• muscle and joint pain;
• soreness salivary glands, swollen lymph nodes;
• inflammation of the tonsils, sore throat;
• difficulty swallowing food;
• specific discharge from the genital tract, which acquire a bluish-white tint.

In patients with immunodeficiency, the symptoms are more severe. A cough appears, pain in chest, shortness of breath, diarrhea develops. The virus affects the liver, lungs, organs of vision, and the central nervous system. The most difficult outcome is convulsions and coma.

Symptoms largely depend on which organ is affected by cytomegalovirus infection. If the virus settles in the genitourinary system, then inflammation of the endometrium, ovaries, vulvitis, colpitis, vulvovaginitis, cervical erosion, salpingo-oophoritis is likely. A woman is disturbed by discomfort in the genital area.

Why is cytomegalovirus dangerous?

The virus is active only with a decrease in immunity. It poses the greatest threat to newborns and pregnant women, as it causes severe fetal pathologies. If the infection occurred before the 20th week of pregnancy, then cytomegalovirus causes malformations, for example, hydro- or microcephaly, anomalies in the structure of the lungs, kidneys and other organs, intrauterine death of an infant, miscarriage.

Cytomegalovirus belongs to TORCH infections, which most often cause pregnancy pathologies.

The severity of the consequences for the baby depends on how long the infection occurred. Infection is most favorable at the time of childbirth, since malformations are excluded, but such complications are possible:

• pneumonia;
• anemia;
• jaundice;
• enlargement of the liver, spleen;
• hearing and vision impairment;
• kidney disease;
• disruption of the digestive tract.

The first signs appear in infants 1-2 months after birth. Diseases are characterized by a recurrent course. The peak mortality from cytomegalovirus among infants occurs at 2-4 months of age.

Due to the severe consequences, testing for cytomegalovirus should be carried out at the planning stage, and not during the period of gestation.

Also at risk dangerous consequences there are HIV-infected, immunodeficient patients, people who have undergone organ transplantation. Cytomegalovirus can cause malignant tumors, such as mucoepidermoid carcinoma, as well as female infertility.

For healthy people, the virus is dangerous because it damages the immune system, which has to constantly contain it. Patients with cytomegalovirus may be more likely to suffer from respiratory diseases.

Diagnostics

You can identify cytomegalovirus by passing tests. This examination is mandatory for pregnant women. For healthy women, diagnostics can only be prescribed when symptoms occur.

Cytomegalovirus is detected in a smear or blood. Less popular is the virological technique by which the virus is detected in urine, bronchial secretions or contents taken from the throat.

If cytomegalovirus is suspected, the woman will be asked to undergo a general blood test. If the lymphocytes exceed 50% of the norm, then the virus is not excluded. Next, a laboratory examination is carried out. There are such methods for determining cytomegalovirus:

• cytoscopic examination of a smear from the vagina, urethra;
• PCR diagnostics is the most reliable method, it involves the detection of the DNA of the virus;
• enzyme immunoassay - is necessary to detect antibodies to cytomegalovirus.

If the result is positive, you should immediately seek therapy.

Deciphering the survey data should be dealt with by a specialist. Interpretation of enzyme immunoassay data: norm - 0.3-0.4, pathology - more than 0.4. Digital indicators are the concentration of antibodies in the blood. If the value is higher than 0.4, then the result is positive and cytomegalovirus is detected. A high concentration of antibodies indicates an active phase of the virus.

In the absence of infection, there should be no cytomegalovirus in the vaginal secretion.

Which doctor is treating?

The choice of a specialist depends on what symptoms are present. More often the first doctor to whom women turn is the gynecologist. You may also need to consult a pediatrician, urologist, immunologist. But a specialist whose competence includes the treatment of cytomegalovirus is a virologist or infectious disease specialist. He will prescribe an examination and medication.

How to treat?

There is no specific therapy for cytomegalovirus. If it is in an inactive stage, then no treatment is required. It is impossible to get rid of the virus; you need to take medications only when needed, when symptoms appear.

A positive cytomegalovirus needs to be treated

The treatment regimen is selected by the doctor based on the state of health and associated complications. For example, HIV patients need higher doses than others. Antiviral drugs, immunomodulators are suitable for therapy. The most effective and safe antiviral medicines are based on interferon. They not only inhibit the activity of the virus, but also stimulate the body's defenses.

In the event of complications from the internal organs, symptomatic treatment is prescribed. It can be antibiotics, hepatoprotectors, choleretic, anti-inflammatory drugs.

With cytomegalovirus, the production of its own interferon decreases.

Cytomegalovirus infection (CMVI) is transmitted sexually, through saliva, general hygiene items (towels, soap), dishes. Breastfeeding mothers transmit the infection to their babies through breast milk. A pregnant woman infects the fetus. Treatment of cytomegalovirus in women prevents its development and spread.

Previously, the disease was called "kissing", as it was believed that it is transmitted through saliva. With the development of medicine, it became clear that the infection is transmitted not only in this way. It is found in blood, urine, feces, semen, cervical mucus, breast milk. Infection is also transmitted through blood transfusions and organ transplants.

Almost 100% of people are carriers of the infection at the end of their lives. Statistics show that by one year, every fifth inhabitant of the planet is a carrier of cytomegalovirus. By the age of 35, more than 40% have acquired an infection, and by the age of 50, all 90%. This data makes the infection the most common on the planet.

Cytomegalovirus in most cases is a passive infection that manifests itself when the immune system is weakened. The cause of the disease is the Cetomegalovirus hominis virus, a "relative" of herpes.

The virus does not differ in clear symptoms, prefers to live in favorable conditions and carefully chooses the cells where it will multiply. When the immune system is weakened, the infection affects the cells, prevents them from dividing, which makes them swell.

Cytomegalovirus cannot be treated. It can be deactivated with immunomodulators and anti-inflammatory drugs. The infection is most dangerous during the period of conception, gestation and breastfeeding, as it causes fetal development disorders.

Cytomegalovirus is firmly fixed in cells and never leaves them. This does not mean that the person will be constantly ill. On the contrary, the infection does not manifest itself in any way in most carriers. Immunity protects the body from virus activity.

For the development of the disease, a significant weakening of immunity is needed. An infection can use any situation to start, up to vitamin deficiency, but most often it is waiting for something strong and unusual. For example, AIDS or the effect on the body of specific medications that destroy oncological pathologies.

Localization and symptoms:

• runny nose with damage to the nasal passages;
• constipation and weakness with damage to internal organs;
• inflammation with damage to the genitourinary organs (inflammation of the uterus, cervix or vagina).

What diseases does CMV cause?

Cytomegalovirus can manifest as an acute respiratory infection. A person complains of weakness, fatigue, headaches, runny nose, profuse salivation. A plaque appears on the gums and tongue, mucous membranes become inflamed.

Infection can affect internal organs... In this case, inflammation of the tissues of the liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, pancreas is diagnosed. Against this background, bronchitis or pneumonia of unknown origin develops, which do not respond to antibiotics. CMV affects the brain and nerves, intestinal walls, eye vessels. The salivary glands and blood vessels become inflamed. A rash may appear.

With damage to the genitourinary organs, women are diagnosed with inflammation of the uterus, cervix or vagina. In men, infections are practically not manifested in any way.

Diagnosis of CMV

It is impossible to identify cytomegalovirus on its own. Its symptoms are unclear and often similar to acute respiratory infections (runny nose, high fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes). Most often, the infection accumulates in the salivary glands, where it is convenient for her, so their only symptom may be inflammation. In rare cases, an enlarged liver and spleen are diagnosed.

The only difference between cytomegalovirus and common acute respiratory infections is the duration of the disease. The first impact lasts 30-45 days.

A dermatovenerologist deals with the diagnosis of cytomegalovirus. The virus is examined using DNA diagnostics - polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Saliva, blood, semen, and cervical mucus are examined under a microscope. During pregnancy, amniotic fluid is analyzed. Abnormal cell size is a symptom of a virus.

Cytomegalovirus can be detected using an immune test (monitoring the response of the immune system). An analysis for this virus is desirable for women who are planning a pregnancy.

Diagnosis of CMV in pregnant women

When cytomegalovirus cells enter the body, the immune system begins to produce antibodies that prevent the active effect of the infection. Thus, the disease enters a latent phase.

To identify an infection in a pregnant woman, a blood test is performed for specific immunoglobulins IgM and IgG. IgM antibodies can accurately tell about the presence or absence of a virus, and IgG antibodies indicate an exacerbation of infection only at high rates.

IgM antibodies indicate a primary or recurrent form of cytomegalovirus. If the result is positive, we can talk about the presence of primary infection or the transition of the virus from an inactive phase to a painful one. With the results of tests with a positive IgM, pregnancy cannot be planned, because the risk of transmitting the virus to the child is great.

In this case, the level of antibodies is checked every 2 weeks, which allows you to determine at what stage the infection is. With a sharp drop in the amount of IgM antibodies, a recent infection or exacerbation occurs. In the case of a slow decline, an inactive phase is diagnosed.

With a negative IgM indicator, infection occurred more than 30 days before the test, but the transition to the active phase is still possible. If the result is negative, infection of the fetus is rare.

IgG values ​​of immunoglobulin can indicate latent virus, aggravated and primary infection. It all depends on its quantitative indicators. Higher values ​​indicate the presence of a virus. In this case, the likelihood of infection of the fetus cannot be determined.

With a normal IgG value, we can say that there is no virus or that the infection has occurred more than 90-120 days before the test. With such indicators, fetal infection does not occur. The exception is the simultaneous detection of IgG and IgM antibodies.

In the absence of infection, the amount of IgG will be below normal. Despite the absence of a dangerous cytomegalovirus, it is women with this indicator that are at risk. They can become infected during pregnancy.

After infection with cytomegalovirus, IgG values ​​are constantly detected in the blood. Against the background of pregnancy, a transition from a latent phase to a painful one is possible, even with IgG indicators. After infection and transition to the active phase, the indicators grow 4 times or more (compared to the initial figures) and slowly fall.

CMV in a smear in a pregnant woman and other tests

A pregnant woman needs to be tested for TORCH infections (rubella, herpes, CMV, toxoplasmosis and others). The examination is not necessary, but it helps to avoid the consequences. The results of these tests will help you understand the dangers and risks of pregnancy. If the result is positive, the test should be taken in another laboratory.

If CMV is detected in a smear at a later date, you need to carefully monitor the health of the expectant mother. Correct behavior helps to avoid problems with the development of the child. It is necessary to strengthen the immune system and eat right. Immunomodulators and antiviral agents are prescribed.

If CMV is detected in a smear in the first 12-13 weeks of pregnancy, pathologies cannot be avoided.

Primary infection during pregnancy occurs in 1-4% of cases. Reactivation (repetition of the acute form) occurs in 13% of pregnant women. Secondary infection with other CMV strains is also possible. There are 3 of them registered.

Primary infection with cytomegalovirus during pregnancy is extremely dangerous. When the virus enters the body for the first time, there are no antibodies in the blood, which allows it to easily penetrate the fetus through the placenta. In case of primary infection from a person with an acute exacerbation, infection of the fetus occurs in 50% of cases.

It's another matter if a pregnant woman became a carrier long before conception. In this case, in the absence of an exacerbation, the virus is rarely transmitted to the child. The fact is that with an exacerbation of the virus, antibodies in the mother's blood are already present and are fighting the pest. During the fight, the cytomegalovirus weakens and cannot break through the placenta. In this case, the risk of fetal infection is 1-2%.

It is important at what period of pregnancy the infection or exacerbation occurred. During the first trimester, the virus is able to promote miscarriage and abnormal fetal development. In the second trimester, the danger is not so likely, and in the third, defects are not diagnosed. However, an exacerbation of the virus at a later date is dangerous due to polyhydramnios and, as a result, premature birth and congenital cytomegaly.

Congenital cytomegaly in a newborn

The condition is characterized by the presence of jaundice, anemia, can diagnose enlargement of organs (liver and spleen), pathologies of vision and hearing, changes in blood, serious disorders of the nervous system.

A blood test will help confirm the presence of the virus. If IgM antibodies are detected, we can talk about an acute cytomegalovirus infection. When IgG antibodies are detected, it cannot be ascertained for sure, because they could have been transmitted to the child from the carrier mother. If after three months they disappear, then there is no infection.

Symptoms of cytomegalovirus in a pregnant woman

In the expectant mother, the infection manifests itself as the flu. There are signs high temperature, weakness, inflammation of the mucous membranes, runny nose. The picture looks like a respiratory infection, which usually does not go to the doctor.

The likelihood of fetal infection

The likelihood of infecting the fetus depends on the concentration of cytomegalovirus in the blood. Those who become infected for the first time are most likely to transmit the infection. The antibodies have not yet developed, so the virus concentration is high. Concentration is lower for carriers. Prevention is the protection of the pregnant woman and the newborn from patients with the acute phase.

Treatment regimen for cytomegalovirus

Cytomegalovirus is incurable. However, with a sufficiently strong defense of the immune system and under the influence of certain antiviral drugs, it does not manifest itself.

Immunity is not formed to cytomegalovirus, therefore, with a weak immune system, medications must be taken. Three-month treatment regimen for cytomegalovirus:

• 1 week - decaris (levamisole);
• a break of 2 days;
• 2 weeks and the following - decaris according to the reverse scheme (only 2 days);
• a break of 5 days.

In total, 2950 g of decaris is obtained in 3 months. If the drug is ineffective, the course may include T-activin, thymotropin, reaferon. It is also possible to use gamma globulin with high levels of anti-cytomegalovirus.

Popular drugs

In the treatment of CMV, drugs are used that are effective for herpes. However, the course of treatment with such drugs should not be delayed due to their toxicity. Ganciclovir is rarely used because the drug is expensive. However, it is effective for CMV in newborns, reduces the chances of death, weaken the effects of pneumonia and thrombocytopenia, mitigate nervous pathologies, and avoid abnormal development of the eyes and auditory nerves.

Virazole, ganciclovir and vidarabine are not used because they do not have a strong effect. Foscarnet, guanosine analogs and cymeven are not prescribed for newborns. In adults, these drugs can inhibit CMV and interfere with its synthesis in cells.

Pregnant and lactating women are prescribed a full range of drugs to strengthen the immune system and drugs that suppress the virus (interferon). However, CMV therapy for pregnant women and newborns has not been improved. Most often, symptomatic therapy and prevention are carried out.

In women with a burdened history (the presence of abortions and serious diseases of the genital organs), treatment is carried out with the help of immunity-correcting agents.

Treatment of cytomegalovirus during pregnancy is reduced to adherence to personal hygiene standards, thermal processing of food and drug therapy. A woman should consult a gynecologist and virologist.

Hospitalization of pregnant women with CMV occurs 14 days before delivery. Infected newborns are isolated from the mother and other children. When breastfeeding, you need to follow the rules of hygiene. It is necessary to thoroughly disinfect the ward and linen, sterilize the instruments. The child is examined daily by a doctor. On days 2, 5 and 12, scrapings from the mucous membranes of the eyes, mouth and nose are taken from the newborn for analysis.

It is possible to terminate pregnancy in the acute form of cytomegalovirus.

IVF with cytomegalovirus

Before IVF, a woman must be tested for CMV. No doctor will issue a fertilization permit with confirmed cytomegalovirus. A woman must undergo treatment before applying for IVF.

Infertility with cytomegalovirus

Cytomegalovirus and herpes can cause infertility. These viruses are present in the body of almost every person, but they become dangerous only under certain circumstances. The effect of cytomegalovirus and herpes virus on reproductive function has hardly been studied.

CMV itself is not the cause of infertility, but it causes diseases that lead to it. Studies have shown that CMV and HHV-6 are found in the semen of most infertile men. These viruses provoke inflammation of the genitourinary organs, chronic inflammation,. Cytomegalovirus predominates in men with urinary tract inflammation. The virus is also able to enter the germ cells.

Cytomegalovirus can interfere with the natural conception of a child, as well as artificial insemination.

STIs), have always been and will be relevant and burning topics. ">

With cytomegalovirus, symptoms in women are manifested taking into account the presence of concomitant diseases. Cytomegalovirus is a pathogen that belongs to the herpesvirus family. The virus is similar to the tissues of the salivary glands, therefore, with a localized form, it is detected in these glands. Cytomegalovirus in women and persists for life. Antibodies are detected in 10% of adolescents, and by the age of 35 years they are detected in 40% of people.

About the disease

Infection can occur through airborne droplets, when using contaminated objects, pregnancy, blood transfusion, as well as during sex and childbirth. CMV, getting into the body, does not immediately make itself felt. His incubation period lasts 60 days.

At this time, symptoms of cytomegalovirus may not appear. But then there may be a sharp outbreak of the entire clinic of infection.

The virus is secreted in environment with various biological fluids. A woman, having become infected once, becomes a carrier for the rest of her life.

The risk group includes the following individuals:

Acute in women lasts 2-6 weeks. During this period, the following symptoms appear:

• high body temperature;
• general intoxication;
• chills;
• feeling tired;
• migraine.

Primary signs

The primary penetration of the virus provokes an immune restructuring of the female body. For women with primary infection, vegetative-vascular disorders are characteristic. In this case, many internal organs are affected. More often, CMVI manifests itself as:

The danger of intrauterine infection is damage to the central nervous system, and in 20% of cases the fetus dies. Symptoms depend on the state of immunity of the carrier of the virus. If a woman has a normal protective reaction, CMVI is not dangerous, the clinic does not develop. The downside of this condition is the transmission of infection to others.

Symptoms characteristic of the infection

Cytomegalovirus infection in women is characterized by:

• high temperature;
• malaise;
• chills;
• migraine attacks.

More often, the virus provokes a clinic characteristic of acute respiratory infections. The difference between CMVI and ARI is the length of the incubation period. In the first case, it is 4-6 weeks, and in the second - 1-2 weeks. The first signs of cytomegalovirus:

• runny nose;
• enlarged lymph glands in the neck;
• enlarged liver and spleen;
• muscle pain;
• migraine.

Sometimes the virus provokes a rash and joint inflammation. With acute respiratory infections, the incubation period of infection is 20 days. During this period, CMVI actively stands out in external environment that can provoke infection.

The risk of infection persists for 3 years. If a woman has problems with immunity, or she drinks medicines for a long time, the infection will proceed with arthritis, myocarditis, pneumonia and other complications.

In the generalized form, the disease spreads to the entire female body... In this case, the following symptoms appear:

• inflammation of the adrenal glands;
• damage to the organs of vision and the digestive system.

In severe cases, paralysis occurs, death occurs. CMVI contributes to cervical inflammation. In this case, pain and blue vaginal discharge may be disturbing.

Diagnostics

To diagnose an infection, the following are examined:

• blood;
• urine;
• saliva;
• smear;
• scraping.

The main technique is the detection of antibodies to the virus. They prevent the development of infection, contributing to its asymptomatic course. To identify them, blood is examined.

But due to a single determination of the titer, it is impossible to distinguish the current CMVI from the transferred one. The progress of cytomegalovirus is indicated by an increase in the number of antibodies by 4 or more times. If the result is negative or no antibodies are detected, then the woman has not been infected. She is more susceptible to primary infection. The antibodies present in the body do not protect against infection.

If there is no result, the analysis is repeated after 2 weeks. If necessary, an examination is prescribed using a different technique. Positive result indicates the presence of an infection or a previous infection.

With the help of inoculation on a cell culture, the virus itself is detected, the degree of its aggressiveness is determined. A similar study is ordered after therapy in order to make a conclusion about its effectiveness. IgG antibodies indicate previous infection. These antibodies with herpes persist for life.

DNA-based research material - vaginal discharge, urine. This method is considered accurate, accounting for 90% of the effectiveness. It will take 2 days to decipher the result.

Sowing diagnostics accuracy is 95%. In this case, the test material is blood, saliva, and discharge. The disadvantage of such diagnostics is a long period of data decryption (up to 7 days). This research method is a mandatory procedure for pregnant women and women who often have colds.

Complications and therapy

Cytomegaly provokes severe complications in women with poor immunity. Patients with AIDS die quickly due to CMVI. Complications observed in women with normal immunity:

• intestinal inflammation, accompanied by diarrhea, blood in the stool, and abdominal pain;
• pleurisy and segmental pneumonia;
• hepatitis;
• encephalitis.

CMV is completely resistant to treatment. With the help of medications, the virus is transferred into a passive phase. Such treatment of cytomegalovirus in women is aimed at inhibiting its active development. The virus should not be allowed to mobilize. The therapy is carried out in a comprehensive manner. Antiviral agents are more often taken (Ganciclovir, Acyclovir, Famciclovir). Before using these funds, the doctor determines their dosage and the duration of the course of admission.

Prophylaxis

In parallel, it is recommended to observe preventive measures. Pregnant women need to give up casual sex. Healthy women are isolated from acute patients. HIV-infected women are required to comply with preventive measures.

Good sexual and personal hygiene is recommended. You can not have an intimate relationship without a condom. When communicating with an unfamiliar person, you cannot use common objects. Particular attention is paid to strengthening the immune system.