Cytomegalovirus (CMV)-encoded UL144 (truncated tumor necrosis factor receptor) and outcome of congenital CMV infection.

Background: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common congenital infection in humans. The effect of viral strains on the outcome of congenital CMV is debated. We evaluated whether UL144 polymorphisms in amniotic fluid from CMV-infected Italian women were associated with terminations of pregnancy, subsequent disease in their offspring, or viral load.