Seroprevalence of Human Cytomegalovirus Diseases in Isfahan, Iran

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is one of the commonest agents that cause congenital malformation such as mental retardation and deafness. Seroprevalence of HCMV varies in different populations and age groups. This study tried to determine the seroprevalence and contributory factors of CMV in order to develop successful strategies for HCMV diseases prevention. We examined 595 serum samples from different age groups for the presence of IgG antibodies against HCMV by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Overall, 586 out of 595 cases were seropositive for HCMV-IgG while 9 cases were seronegative. Educational level, sex, marital status, and place of residence were not associated with CMV seropositivity. Our results indicated that in Isfahan, Similar to other developing countries, most patients are infected during puberty and not through sexual intercourse. Therefore, frequent audiological assessments and urine samples to evaluate CMV in case of defect in hearing ability are mandatory. We also recommend transmission of eradicated blood for immunocompromised patient and immature neonates.