Work

Congenital Cytomegalovirus Pneumonitis Mimicking Childhood Interstitial Lung Disease: A Case Report and Review of Diagnostic Challenges

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We present a case of a full-term neonate with congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection manifesting as severe pneumonitis. The patient exhibited intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), early onset of respiratory distress, and persistent oxygen dependency. High viral load in urine and plasma supported the diagnosis, confirmed within the first three weeks of life. Despite treatment with oral valganciclovir for six months, persistent tachypnea, failure to thrive, and radiological findings prompted a broader differential diagnosis, including childhood interstitial lung disease (chILD). Bronchoscopy and whole-exome sequencing (WES) were performed. This case underscores the need for multidisciplinary evaluation in neonates with unexplained or protracted respiratory illness and highlights the potential overlap between congenital CMV pneumonitis and genetic interstitial lung disease (ILD).

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.87869

Authors: Khalfan Al Abdali, Talal Al Wardi, Ruba Elfatih, Yarab Al Bulushi, Majid Al Jabri

Institutions: Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Sultan Qaboos University

Language: English

Topic: Cytomegalovirus and herpesvirus research

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4412383671