Cytomegalovirus infection in gastroenterology

Abstract

Aim. To highlight the relevance of gastrointestinal manifestations of cytomegalovirus infection (CMVI), to highlight the main risk factors for the development of this pathology, current trends in diagnosis and treatment. Key points. CMVI is one of the most common opportunistic diseases, characterized by a variety of manifestations from asymptomatic to severe generalized forms affecting internal organs and body systems. The prevalence of CMVI worldwide ranges from 20 to 95%. Particular attention is paid to timely diagnosis, treatment and prevention of CMVI. The “gold standard” in the diagnosis of digestive diseases associated with CMVI is immunohistochemical examination and detection of cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA in tissues using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Of undoubted interest in the diagnosis of CMV is the detection of CMV DNA in stool using digital PCR. Compared to quantitative PCR, digital PCR has higher accuracy and sensitivity. As first-line therapy, the drugs of choice are ganciclovir and valganciclovir. Maribavir has been successfully used to treat patients with CMV infection refractory to one or more previous therapies. One of the promising directions in the treatment of cytomegalovirus colitis in patients with ulcerative colitis is fecal microbiota transplantation. Conclusion. Timely identification of risk factors for the development of CMV infection, the introduction of innovative methods and approaches in diagnosis, and the use of effective methods for treating diseases of the digestive system associated with CMV infection can improve the prognosis of the underlying disease and reduce the risk of developing urgent conditions in gastroenterology.