Influence of Early In Utero Infection with Human Cytomegalovirus on the Course of Pregnancy

Previous studies of in utero-infection with the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) were focused on HCMV- seropositive women. Here, we assessed the clinical relevance of HCMV infection in normal pregnancies. In a prospective cohort study, amniotic fluids from 403 pregnant women undergoing amniocentesis for non-virological reasons were tested for HCMV DNA (nested PCR analysis of amniotic fluids), and sera of mothers and their neonates for IgG and IgM anti- bodies against HCMV (ELISA). Clinical data were obtained through questionnaires at the time of amniocentesis and at delivery. HCMV DNA was found in 3% of amniotic fluids, and was associated with an increased occurrence of preterm delivery, reduced birth weight, premature labor and preeclampsia. The seroprevalence of HCMV-specific IgG in maternal and newborn sera was about 40%, IgM was very rarely found in mothers, and in none of the neonates. Serological results were not associated with pregnancy complications. Hence, in utero HCMV infection is rare in normal pregnancies but might have consequences for the course of pregnancy.