PRIMARY CYTOMEGALOVIRUS INFECTION IN A TODDLER

Cytomegalovirus is a human herpesvirus, which is very spread in nature, its global seroprevalence varies from 40-100%. CMV is transmitted from person to person via close contact with an individual who is excreting the virus, through infected bodily fluids such as saliva, urine, blood, breast milk, semen, and tears, particularly during childbirth. CMV have a broad cellular tropism, allowing it to infect epithelial cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, macrophages, and neural stem cells. After the primary infection, the host immune response suppresses lytic replication, but fails to eradicate the virus, establishing so permanent latency. We report a toddler who presents with primary Cytomegalovirus infection. His symptoms and signs included prolonged fever, fatigue and enlarged liver and spleen. Laboratory was remarkable for lymphocytosis and abnormal liver function. Treatment was supportive followed by complete recovery. Humans may become infected with CMV at any age. Although primary infection is usually asymptomatic, it may present clinically as a mononucleosis- like illness.