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CMV (Cytomegalovirus)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common herpesvirus that often remains asymptomatic but poses serious risks for infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a gastroenterologist in Houston, provides comprehensive diagnosis, personalized antiviral treatment, compassionate preventive guidance, and ongoing care.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Exposure to bodily fluids (saliva, urine, blood, breast milk, sexual fluids)
  • Close contact with young children who shed the virus
  • Weakened immune system due to illness or immunosuppressive medications
  • Pregnancy with prior or new CMV exposure
  • Work in healthcare or childcare settings

Signs and Symptoms

  • Fever and chills
  • Sore throat and swollen lymph nodes
  • Fatigue and muscle aches
  • Rash (in some cases)
  • Hearing loss or vision problems (in newborns or immunocompromised patients)
  • Liver or spleen enlargement, poor growth, or other organ involvement in high-risk groups

Expert Treatment for CMV (Cytomegalovirus) by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your symptoms, pregnancy status, immune function, and exposure risks to CMV.

Blood Tests

We perform CMV PCR to detect viral DNA and measure CMV IgM/IgG antibodies to distinguish recent from past infection.

Urine and Saliva Testing

In newborns or high-risk patients, we test urine or saliva for viral shedding to confirm active infection.

Endoscopy with Biopsy (if indicated)

If gastrointestinal involvement is suspected-such as pain or bleeding-an upper or lower endoscopy with tissue biopsy can identify CMV-related inflammation.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for CMV.

1. Home and Lifestyle Support

  • Drinking more fluids to stay hydrated
  • Eating nutritious meals rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables
  • Getting plenty of rest to support your immune system
  • Frequent hand-washing to prevent virus spread

2. Medications

  • Ganciclovir to inhibit CMV replication
  • Valganciclovir as an effective oral antiviral option
  • Foscarnet for cases resistant or intolerant to first-line drugs
  • Regular blood tests to monitor efficacy and detect side effects

3. Procedures

  • Upper or lower endoscopy to assess gastrointestinal involvement
  • Biopsy during endoscopy to confirm CMV infection in gut tissue
1K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does CMV spread?

CMV spreads through contact with body fluids like saliva, urine, blood, breast milk, or sexual fluids.

What does a CMV IgG positive result mean?

A positive CMV IgG means you were infected in the past and likely have some immunity; in pregnancy, further testing may be needed to assess timing.

Can CMV harm my baby during pregnancy?

Yes. CMV can cross the placenta and cause hearing loss, vision problems, or developmental issues; early diagnosis and management help reduce risk.

How is CMV tested?

CMV is diagnosed with blood tests for antibodies or PCR, and newborns can be tested using urine or saliva samples.

What treatments are available?

Mild cases may need only rest and supportive care. Severe or immunocompromised cases are treated with antivirals like ganciclovir, valganciclovir, or foscarnet.

How do I protect myself from CMV?

Wash hands frequently, avoid sharing utensils or drinks, and use precautions when handling diapers or bodily fluids, especially around young children.

When should I see Dr. Pothuri?

Schedule a visit if you're pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or experience digestive symptoms that could signal CMV infection.

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