Symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus. Disorders of language, learning, and hearing
W. D. Williamson, M. M. Desmond, N. LaFevers, L. H. Taber, F. I. Catlin and T. G. Weaver
Seventeen patients with symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) were
studied longitudinally, with emphasis given to disorders of language,
learning, and hearing. At a mean age of 5.5 years (range, 1 go 10 years),
nine children (53%) performed in the retarded range. Eleven (65%)
experienced sensorineural hearing loss, in three of whom it was
progressive. Developmental verbal dyspraxia was documented in two children
and suspected in a third. Disabilities in several areas of the learning
process exhibited by four children with normal intelligence and hearing
loss. Although the effects of congenital CMV were diverse, all of the
children had developmental disorders that necessitated special education.
Such patients require longitudinal follow-up that includes more than tests
of intelligence and hearing. All areas of development must be evaluated to
appreciate the full effect of CMV encephalitis in utero.
