Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus: An Unrecognized Teratogenic Pathogen
Author Information
Author(s): Leslie L. Barton, M.D., C.J. Peters, M.D., T.G. Ksiazek, D.V.M., Ph.D.
Primary Institution: University of Arizona Health Sciences Center
Hypothesis
Congenital LCMV infection is generally undiagnosed and may account for unexplained hydrocephalus with microcephaly or macrocephaly, deafness, blindness, and mental retardation.
Conclusion
LCMV is a more frequent cause of CNS disease in newborns than previously recognized.
Supporting Evidence
- Congenital LCMV infection has resulted in fetal or neonatal death and serious conditions in infants.
- Detailed clinical and laboratory data are available for five of the six infants.
- All infants displayed nonobstructive hydrocephalus with periventricular calcifications, chorioretinitis, and psychomotor retardation.
Takeaway
This study found that a virus called LCMV can cause serious problems in babies, like brain swelling and vision issues, and it might be more common than we thought.
Methodology
The study diagnosed congenital LCMV infection in infants through clinical and laboratory data, including immunofluorescence antibody and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on reported cases and the limited geographic scope of the study.
Limitations
The study relies on a small sample size and lacks comprehensive data on the prevalence of LCMV antibodies in the general population.
Participant Demographics
The study involved six American infants diagnosed with congenital LCMV infection.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website