A neonate born to a mother who had confirmed primary CMV infection during the first trimester is asymptomatic at birth. CMV DNA PCR in neonatal urine is positive. Cranial ultrasound is normal. Which long-term complication is this child at the HIGHEST risk for?

• A Progressive chorioretinitis
• B Sensorineural hearing loss ✓
• C Developmental delay with intellectual disability
• D Hydrocephalus

Explanation

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common long-term sequela of congenital CMV infection, occurring in up to 10-15% of asymptomatic infected neonates and up to 40-60% of symptomatic ones. It can be progressive and delayed in onset, requiring audiologic follow-up until age 6 years. Chorioretinitis causes visual loss but hearing loss is far more prevalent.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.