Prolonged fever complicated by petechiae in an immunocompetent adult with primary CMV infection: A case report

Background

While petechiae can be a sign of a serious underlying condition, the majority are benign. Frequently, an underlying cause is not identified despite extensive diagnostic testing. Petechiae may be caused by CMV infection which is rarely considered in the differential diagnostic process. Most immunocompetent adults with primary CMV infection are asymptomatic or develop a mononucleosis-like syndrome with fever and mild hepatitis.

Case report

We report the case of a 30-year-old man who presented to an out-of-hours general physician consult with intermittent fever for three weeks. Examination showed petechiae on the upper extremities. Initial laboratory data revealed lymphocytosis and elevated liver enzyme tests. Further testing showed positive CMV throat swab and CMV/EBV immunoglobulin M and G. His symptoms resolved gradually without any treatment.

Why should an emergency physician be aware of this?

This report shows that primary CMV infection can be a cause of petechiae. Emergency physicians should keep in mind that although uncommon, immunocompetent adults can experience acute symptomatic CMV infections characterized by an extended disease course and testing may avoid unnecessary and extensive diagnostic workup and repeated hospital contacts.