INFORMATION ON CYTOMEGALOVIRUS INFECTION

Infectious mononucleosis is an acute viral infection that may cause high fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph glands, especially in the neck. Unlike the more general form of mononucleosis, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, this kind is caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV).

CAUSES OF CYTOMEGALOVIRUS INFECTION

Infectious mononucleosis can be caused by many different viruses and a few kinds of bacteria. Less commonly, it is caused by parasites.
The most general reasons are the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV), both members of the herpesvirus family. The symptoms of infection, including sore throat, arise less commonly with CMV than with EBV.
The infection is transmitted by saliva, sexual contact, respiratory droplets, and blood transfusions. While the peak incidence occurs in the age of 15-17, the infection can occur at any age, most often between the ages of 10 and 35.

Abnormal or atypical lymphocytes (white blood cells) are seen in the peripheral blood, and may persist for 2 to 8 weeks. Abnormalities of liver function are also typical. Risk factors other than age are not known. The majority of people are exposed to CMV early in life and do not feel it because they have no indications.

SYMPTOMS OF CYTOMEGALOVIRUS INFECTION

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Expanded lymph nodes, especially in the neck
• Malaise (vague ill feeling)
• Continuous tiredness or Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Muscular aches or stiffness

Less common symptoms of Cytomegalovirus  include:

• Jaundice
• Headache
• Neck stiffness
• Sensitivity to light
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Heart rate increases
• Irregular heart rate

TREATMENT OF CYTOMEGALOVIRUS INFECTION

Most patients get well within 4 to 6 weeks without medicines. There is no definite treatment available. Antiviral medications do not help. Rest is needed, sometimes for a month or longer to regain full activity levels. Relief of indication is provided with analgesics, and warm salt water gargles for sore throat.