On the classification of cytomegalovirus infection in newborn children

Relevance: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the most common infection that is most commonly found in sick newborns and may be the leading cause of their morbidity and mortality. Current research and clinical observations confirm the likelihood of contracting CMV infection not only in the antenatal period but also in the perinatal and postnatal periods. The study aimed to comment on the current understanding of neonatal CMV infection, its clinical manifestations depending on the time of infection, perinatal outcomes, and long-term consequences to develop a functional classification of CMV infection in newborns. Materials and methods: A systematic review and analysis of the literature sources published by scientists in neonatology and perinatology, healthcare practitioners, and professional associations was carried out. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Euro-Peristat over the past decade by the study keywords. A total of 30 sources were included in the analysis. Results: Delayed sequelae, symptomatic and asymptomatic congenital and perinatal infections have been identified. A review shows that, to date, the incidence of asymptomatic congenital CMV infection has not been established. There is no systematization of the clinical manifestations and outcomes of congenital, perinatal, and postnatal CMV infection in newborns. Conclusion: Based on the literature review, we have developed a functional classification of CMV infection in newborns by the time of infection. Thus, CMV infection can be congenital, perinatal, or postnatal. The classification presents manifestations of symptomatic forms of CMV infection, perinatal and distant outcomes. However, there are no clear diagnostic criteria for asymptomatic forms of CMV infection. There is no clear rationale for etiopathogenetic therapy, prognostic and preventive criteria for various forms of CMV infection. All of the above tasks require further prospective cohort studies.