Recent Trends in Cytomegalovirus IgG Seropositivity in the Adult Population of Korea: a Cross-Sectional Study and Literature Review
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is prevalent worldwide. Although Korea has historically shown high CMV IgG seropositivity (>95%), declines have been reported recently. We assessed current CMV IgG seropositivity and analyzed prevailing trends in the Korean population. Methods: Residual samples from individuals undergoing regular health checkups were analyzed. We assessed 1,978 samples (from 937 men and 1,041 women) where the age group distribution was relatively balanced. CMV IgG levels were measured at two institutions using a commercial immunoassay (Alinity i CMV IgG Reagent Kit, Abbott) following the manufacturer's instructions. Results were interpreted as "reactive" when the CMV IgG concentration was ≥ 6.0 arbitrary units (AU)/mL or "nonreactive" when the CMV IgG concentration was <6.0 AU/mL. Seropositivity was compared by sex and across age groups (20-29, 30-39, 40-49, and 50-59 yrs). Results: for trend <0.001), consistently in both sexes. Conclusions: Our findings provide the most up-to-date estimate of CMV IgG seropositivity in the Korean adult population. Because of lower seropositivity in younger adults, continued monitoring and further education are essential for CMV control and prevention.
Source: Annals of Laboratory Medicine
Authors: Changhee Ha, Anna Lee, Hee-Won Moon
Institutions: Konkuk University, Konkuk University Medical Center
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4416604482