Human cytomegalovirus

Definition

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a common virus belonging to the herpesvirus family, which can remain dormant in the body and potentially reactivate. It is primarily transmitted through bodily fluids and is known for its ability to evade the immune system, leading to significant implications for various organ systems, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HCMV can cause serious health issues in immunocompromised individuals, such as organ transplant recipients and those with HIV/AIDS.
2. The virus has evolved numerous strategies to evade detection and destruction by the host's immune system, including downregulating major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules.
3. Congenital HCMV infection can lead to developmental delays and other serious conditions in newborns, making it a leading cause of birth defects.
4. HCMV can establish latency in various cells, including monocytes and endothelial cells, allowing it to persist in the body for long periods.
5. The prevalence of HCMV is high, with approximately 60-90% of adults having been infected by the age of 40, but most remain asymptomatic.

Review Questions

• How does human cytomegalovirus interact with the immune system during infection?
  • Human cytomegalovirus has developed multiple strategies to evade the immune response. For instance, it can downregulate MHC class I molecules on infected cells, making it harder for cytotoxic T cells to recognize and eliminate these cells. This immune evasion allows HCMV to persist in the body and re-emerge during periods of immune suppression, particularly affecting those who are immunocompromised.
• Discuss the implications of congenital human cytomegalovirus infection on fetal development and infant health.
  • Congenital human cytomegalovirus infection can significantly impact fetal development and lead to serious health issues in infants. Infected newborns may experience hearing loss, vision problems, and developmental delays. The presence of HCMV can also increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disabilities, highlighting the need for screening and management strategies in pregnant women to minimize the risk of transmission.
• Evaluate the broader public health implications of human cytomegalovirus in relation to organ transplantation and immunocompromised patients.
  • The presence of human cytomegalovirus poses significant challenges in public health, particularly for organ transplantation programs. The risk of HCMV infection or reactivation in transplant recipients can lead to severe complications such as graft rejection and increased morbidity. Furthermore, understanding HCMV's mechanisms of immune evasion is crucial for developing effective antiviral therapies and preventative measures to protect vulnerable populations, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and surveillance.

Related terms

Herpesvirus: A family of viruses that cause diseases in humans and animals, characterized by their ability to establish lifelong infections.

Immunocompromised: A state where the immune system is weakened or not functioning properly, making an individual more susceptible to infections.

Congenital infection: An infection that is transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy, which can lead to various health complications for the newborn.