Alternative Names
CMV mononucleosis; Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Definition of Acute cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection
Acute cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a condition caused by a member of the herpesvirus family.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV) is very common. The infection is spread by:
Signs and tests
Your health care provider will perform a physical exam and feel your belly area. The liver and spleen may be tender when they are gently pressed (palpated). There may be a skin rash.
Treatment
Most patients recover in 4 – 6 weeks without medication. Rest is needed, sometimes for a month or longer to regain full activity levels. Painkillers and warm salt water gargles can help relieve symptoms.
Expectations (prognosis)
Fever usually goes away in 10 days, and swollen lymph glands and spleen return to normal in 4 weeks. Fatigue may linger for 2 to 3 months.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 9/15/2010
