Clinical presentation of cytomegalovirus meningoencephalitis in adult
patients: A 6-year retrospective study at a single center
Abstract
Abstract Background: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a crucial
pathogen in immunocompromised individuals, causing infections such as
pneumonitis, colitis, and retinitis. However, research on CMV infections
of the central nervous system (CNS) is limited. Objective: This
retrospective cohort study enrolled patients with a CMV meningitis or
encephalitis diagnosis and analyzed their underlying conditions,
clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, treatments, and outcomes.
Methods: The study included patients who had positive results in
quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests of their
cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for CMV at any time between January 2017 and
December 2022. Clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, treatment
approaches, and outcomes were reviewed and analyzed from electronic
medical records. Results: The cohort comprised 12 patients with a
median age of 61 years (range, 43–84 years). Stupor and generalized
seizures were the most common neurological presentations. Brain imaging
in half of the patients revealed nonspecific abnormalities, such as
atrophy. CSF protein levels were elevated, with a median of 74.5 mg/dL.
CSF pleocytosis was observed in three patients (25%) and was
predominantly lymphocytic. The in-hospital mortality rate was 75% (9
out of 12 patients). Conclusions: Although rare, CMV CNS
infections are associated with a high mortality rate. CSF pleocytosis is
uncommon in such cases, potentially contributing to clinical
misdiagnosis or underestimation. CMV meningoencephalitis should be
considered in immunocompromised patients who present with unexplained
seizures or altered consciousness.