| CMV | <virology> Probably the most widespread of the Herpetoviridae group. Infected cells enlarge and have a characteristic inclusion body (composed of virus particles) in the nucleus. Causes disease only in utero (leading to abortion or stillbirth or to various congenital defects), although can be opportunistic in the immunocompromised host. Patients who have been exposed to the virus will remain cytomegalovirus IgG positive. Acronym: CMV (30 Sep 1997) |
|---|---|
| CMV polyradiculopathy | <neurology, pathology> Cytomegalovirus infection of the peripheral nerves and the spinal roots leading to generalised weakness and paralysis. Origin: Gr. Pathos = disease (09 Oct 1997) |
| CMV retinitis | <pathology> A complication of disseminated cytomegalovirus infection in the immunocompromised individual (for example AIDS). Severe inflammatory changes in the retina result in blindness. Treatments include antiviral agents like foscarnet and gancyclovir. (27 Sep 1997) |