Detection and Prevention of Perinatal Infection: Cytomegalovirus and Zika Virus

Abstract

Congenital cytomegalovirus is the most common viral congenital infection, and affects up to 2% of neonates. Significant sequelae may develop after congenital cytomegalovirus, including hearing loss, cognitive defects, seizures, and death. Zika virus is an emerging virus with perinatal implications; a congenital Zika virus syndrome has been identified, and includes findings such as microcephaly, fetal nervous system abnormalities, and neurologic sequelae after birth. Screening, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of these perinatal infections are reviewed in this article.

Keywords: Congenital Zika virus syndrome; Congenital cytomegalovirus infection; Perinatal infections; Ultrasound diagnosis.