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CMV (Cytomegalovirus)
Understanding CMV (Cytomegalovirus) Infection provides essential information on transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments for at-risk groups worldwide, especially newborns and families. Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers personalized care plans, lifestyle recommendations, and support to manage and minimize CMV complications.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
What Is CMV?
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common member of the herpesvirus family. Most healthy people carry it without symptoms, but it can cause serious illness in pregnant women, newborns, and those with weakened immune systems.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Direct contact with body fluids (saliva, urine, blood, breast milk)
Close-quarter settings (daycares, nursing homes)
Weakened immunity (HIV/AIDS, organ transplant patients)
Pregnancy (risk of transmitting CMV to the fetus)
Very young children and older adults (higher vulnerability)
Signs and Symptoms
Fatigue or fever
Swollen lymph nodes (neck, underarms)
Sore throat or persistent cough
Headache or muscle aches
Loss of appetite or mild skin rash
In newborns: low birth weight, hearing loss, enlarged liver or spleen
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses CMV-Related?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
She reviews your GI symptoms, immune status (e.g., transplant history, HIV), any recent exposures, and pregnancy status. A focused abdominal exam evaluates for tenderness or organ enlargement in the epigastric region.
Laboratory Evaluation
Blood work includes a complete blood count, liver function tests, CMV serologies (IgM/IgG), and quantitative CMV PCR to assess viral load.
Endoscopic and Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to check for liver or spleen enlargement and rule out biliary obstruction.
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to inspect the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for CMV-related ulcers or erosions.
CT or MRI of the abdomen if deeper organ involvement or complications (abscess, perforation) are suspected.
Biopsy and Histopathology
If endoscopic findings are equivocal, Dr. Nguyen obtains mucosal biopsies to identify CMV inclusion bodies and to grade the degree of inflammation or ulceration.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for CMV infection.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated
Eat a healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and lean protein
Don't share food, drinks, or utensils—especially with young children
Wash hands well after diaper changes or caregiving
2. Medications
Antiviral drugs (like ganciclovir or valganciclovir) to reduce the virus
Fever and pain relievers to ease symptoms
Regular checks for kidney function and blood counts during treatment
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
IV antivirals for severe CMV infections
Lab work using a small access line to reduce discomfort
Referral to specialists if CMV affects organs like the eyes, lungs, or liver
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of CMV infection?
Fatigue, fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and muscle aches. In newborns, CMV can cause low birth weight, hearing loss, and an enlarged liver or spleen.
How is CMV diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves blood tests for CMV antibodies or viral DNA (PCR). In infants, urine or saliva testing confirms congenital CMV. Imaging may be used if organ damage is suspected.
What's the ICD-10 code for CMV?
CMV disease is classified under ICD-10 code B25. For example, B25.9 denotes CMV infection without organ involvement.
Can CMV be cured?
Antiviral treatments like ganciclovir or valganciclovir control symptoms and lower viral load but don't eliminate the virus entirely. CMV can remain dormant and may reactivate.
How does congenital CMV affect babies?
Congenital CMV may lead to hearing loss, vision problems, developmental delays, low birth weight, and enlarged liver or spleen. Early detection helps initiate timely interventions.
Is CMV treatment safe during pregnancy?
Certain antiviral medications can be used with caution. Risks and benefits should be thoroughly discussed with your physician to protect both mother and baby.
How long does CMV treatment last?
Treatment duration varies from a few weeks to several months based on infection severity and immune status. Your doctor will tailor therapy length and monitor you closely.
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