What are the characteristics of jaundice caused by cytomegalovirus infection?
Dec 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, the main characteristics of jaundice caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection include high incidence in infants and young children, prolonged duration of jaundice, frequent hepatosplenomegaly, potential multi-system involvement, and specific serological markers. Once jaundice symptoms are detected, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to complete relevant examinations; treatment should follow medical advice after confirming the infection. During treatment, adequate nutritional support is important, and infants should receive sufficient caloric intake through feeding.
Generally, the main characteristics of jaundice caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection include high incidence in infants and young children, prolonged duration of jaundice, frequent hepatosplenomegaly, potential multi-system involvement, and specific serological indicators. The details are as follows:
1. High incidence in infants and young children
Newborns and infants have immature immune systems, making them susceptible to cytomegalovirus invasion that can lead to jaundice. Premature babies and those with low birth weight are at even higher risk. Infection is mostly transmitted vertically from the mother, and symptoms may appear within weeks or months after birth. Close monitoring for jaundice in these populations is essential.
2. Prolonged duration of jaundice
Unlike physiological jaundice, which typically resolves within 1–2 weeks, jaundice caused by CMV infection can persist for several weeks or even months. Yellowing of the skin and sclera does not easily resolve spontaneously, and in some cases, jaundice may recur or worsen, requiring medical intervention.
3. Frequent hepatosplenomegaly
Viral invasion damages liver cells, impairing bilirubin metabolism, and may also cause reactive enlargement of the spleen. On abdominal examination, the liver and spleen may be found to extend beyond normal size. Some children may also experience associated symptoms such as decreased appetite and abdominal distension.
4. Potential multi-system involvement
In addition to the liver, the virus may affect the nervous system, hematologic system, urinary system, and others, leading to complications such as hearing loss, developmental delay, thrombocytopenia, and interstitial pneumonia, significantly impacting physical and cognitive development.
5. Specific serological markers
A positive serum CMV IgM antibody indicates recent infection, while a rising titer of IgG antibodies is also diagnostically significant. Detection of viral DNA can directly confirm infection, providing crucial evidence for clinical diagnosis.
Upon noticing signs of jaundice, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to complete relevant tests. Once infection is confirmed, treatment should follow medical guidance. Nutritional support is important during treatment; infants should receive adequate caloric intake through feeding. Regular follow-up visits are needed to monitor recovery progress and detect possible complications.
