Cytomegalovirus encephalitis

Last revised by Daniel J Bell on 9 May 2023

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) encephalitis is a CNS infection that almost always develops in the context of profound immunosuppression

This article focus on adult infection. CMV is also one of the most frequent prenatal infections, which is discussed separately: congenital CMV infection

It is extremely rare to involve immunocompetent individuals. If an HIV positive patient then their CD4 count is usually <50 cells/μL 6.

Presentation is variable, however generalized cognitive decline is most frequent. Focal neurological signs and cranial nerve palsies are uncommon to rare.

At autopsy active CMV infection is also seen systemically although clinical manifestations are variable:

  • CMV adrenalitis (92%)

  • CMV pneumonitis (42%)

  • CMV retinitis (58%)

Typically, before CMV infections become clinically apparent the patient's CD4+ count typically reaches below 50/mm3 2. CMV infects the entire neuraxis (brain, spinal cord, meninges, nerve roots, eye) and therefore has variable presentation.

Cytomegalovirus is a DNA virus belonging to the herpesviruses group, and is also known as Human Herpesvirus 5 (HHV-5). It is found in all geographic locations and socioeconomic groups, and infects between 50-80% of adults in the United States as indicated by the presence of antibodies in much of the general population.

Two most common imaging findings are meningoencephalitis and ventriculitis and/or ependymitis. 

In CMV encephalitis, there is usually only non-specific increased T2/FLAIR signal in the white matter. If ventriculitis is also present then enhancement of the ependymal surface and hydrocephalus may also be seen. 

  • high T2 white matter change most prominent in a periventricular distribution

  • no enhancement (unless ventriculitis present, in which case 30% or so will enhance)

  • no mass effect (often seen with concurrent atrophy)

Appearances are similar to HIV encephalitis, although usually CMV occurs in patients with a longer duration of disease, and lower CD4+ counts. 

Other white matter changes in HIV, especially:

Particularly in a profoundly immunocompromised patient, ventriculitis characterized by high T2/FLAIR signal and post contrast enhancement is highly suggestive of CMV infection. 

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