Probably the most widespread of the Herpetoviridae group.
Infected cells enlarge and have a characteristic inclusion body (composed of virus particles) in the nucleus. Causes disease only in utero (leading to abortion or stillbirth or to various congenital defects), although can be opportunistic in the immunocompromised host.
Patients who have been exposed to the virus will remain cytomegalovirus IgG positive.
Acronym: CMV
(30 Sep 1997)