Detection of cytomegalovirus in human placental cells by polymerase chain reaction.

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is the most common cause of viral intrauterine infection. Progress in rapid, specific, and dependable detection of HCMV has recently been achieved by the use of DNA hybridization techniques and other molecular methods. We examined 21 placentas after delivery for the presence of HCMV DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

[Drugs against human cytomegalovirus].

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infects about 60% of adults in developed world and more than 90% of developing countries population. In the immunocompetent host, initial infection and reactivation of latent infection are usually asymptomatic. However, in hosts with impaired cellular immune functions, such as transplant recipients, patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or undergoing anticancer chemo- and/or radiotherapy, the full pathogenic potential of the virus may be realized.