Outcomes of a targeted congenital cytomegalovirus infection screening approach among infants born ≥35 weeks gestation

Abstract

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common cause of congenital viral infection. The estimated incidence of congenital CMV (CCMV) is about 1–6% worldwide, although reliable estimates from Singapore and surrounding countries are unavailable.1,2 Previous local serologic studies among pregnant women reported high rates of CMV seropositivity (>80%),3 highlighting the possible high burden of CCMV. With the establishment of oral valganciclovir as an effective treatment for infants with CCMV, prompt diagnosis and treatment of infants with symptomatic disease is important to reduce the risk of moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and neurodevelopmental impairment.4 We report the findings of a targeted CCMV screening approach using failed newborn hearing screen (NHS) or small-for-gestational-age (SGA) status as triggers for screening among infants born ≥35 weeks gestation.