Genetherapy

Story Summary: Medications can help newborns and people with weak immune systems. There may be complications if the patient is pregnant (danger to the developing fetus) or has a weakened immune system. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), USA, between 50% and 80% of all adults in the USA are infected. They are all species specific and include salivary virus, inclusion body rhinitis virus of pigs, and others. There are three main types of CMV infections: Acquired CMV, or primary CMV- a first-time infection. Congenital CMV- CMV infection occurs during pregnancy and affects the fetus (unborn baby). CMV is not a concern for most of the general population. The dormant CMV is much more likely to become active in these patients. Pregnancy and congenital CMVThe danger is to the developing fetus (unborn baby), rather than the mother. 5% of all babies born have congenital CMV; The Mayo Clinic, USA, estimates 1%. Of the infected babies, only about 10% will have symptoms when they are born. Another 10% of babies born infected will have no symptoms, but will eventually have hearing problems. In the vast majority of cases there will be no noticeable symptoms. Recurring CMV signs and symptoms may include: Any patient with a weakened immune system who experiences any of these symptoms should tell their doctor straight away. Children with bilateral hearing loss are much more likely to have speech and communication problems later on. Acquired (primary) Cytomegalovirus may spread from human-to-human via: Saliva – includes coughs and sneezesSemenBloodUrineVaginal fluidsBreast milk – the benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh CMV risks. Most humans become infected during childhood; daycare centers, nurseries, and places where children are in close contact with each other are common environments. Diagnosing CMVBlood test- a blood test can detect antibodies (special proteins in the blood) which are created when the immune system responds to the presence of CMV. Cultures or a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test from blood, body fluids, or a tissue biopsy can detect the presence of the virus. Diagnosing a baby- a pregnant woman has a very small risk of reactivation infecting her developing baby. People with weakened immune systems- any patient that has a weakened immune system should be tested, even if there is no active CMV infection. Anybody who is immunocompromised should undergo regular monitoring for CMV complications; including vision and hearing problems. Treatment for acquired CMV- patients infected for the first time who experience symptoms may find that OTC (over-the-counter, no prescription required) painkilling medications, such as Tylenol (paracetamol), ibuprofen or aspirin (patient must be over 16 years of age for aspirin) will help relieve symptoms. An example is ganciclovir; possible side-effects may include: Newborns may need to stay in hospital until their organ functions return to normal. Adults with weakened immune systems may also have to be hospitalized if there is extensive organ damage. Gastrointestinal problems- including diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, colon inflammation, and blood in feces (stools). Prevention of CMV infectionThe following precautions may help lower the risk of contracting CMV; they are especially applicable for pregnant women: Hand washing- wash your hands regularly with soap and water. Some experts say kissing should be done on the forehead rather than on the lips. Sharing kitchen utensils- avoid sharing glasses and kitchen utensils, i. e. do not pass your glass around, or pick up another persons drink to have a sip. Disposable items- such as diapers, paper-handkerchiefs (tissues), etc. should be discarded and dealt with carefully. Do not touch your face with your hands after disposing them or touching them before washing them thoroughly. Condom- during sex wear a condom to prevent the spread of CMV via vaginal fluids and semen. The virus causes keratin, a hard protein in the epidermis (the top layer of the skin) to grow too fast. The virus causes keratin, a hard protein in the epidermis (the top layer of the skin) to grow too fast….Read the Full Story

Related posts:

1. What Is Erythema Infectiosum? What Is Slapped Cheek Syndrome?
2. West Nile virus infection may persist in kidneys years after initial infection
3. Health Matters : What is Opportunistic Infection ?