CMV: Pre-natal diagnosis of congenital CMV infection

Description of tests

CMV can be detected by:

• PCR
• Viral culture

Purpose of tests

To detect CMV on amniotic fluid in a pregnant woman to diagnose possible congenital CMV infection in the foetus.

Criteria for performing this test

The reference centre performs PCR and culture on amniotic fluid from pregnant patients at increased risk of congenital CMV.
Amniotic fluid puncture should be performed at least 8 weeks after maternal infection and from 18 weeks of gestation. In these circumstances, the sensitivity of PCR on amniotic fluid for the diagnosis of congenital CMV is ≥95%.

Instructions for samples and transport

Amniotic fluid: 2-3 ml, stored at 4°C; ship at room temperature

Unacceptable requests

• Incomplete request form
• Sample not suitable for analysis
• Incorrect transport/storage 

Turn around time

1 to 3 working days.

Reporting of test results

The laboratory reports the results and comments and sends it to the requesting laboratory by post or via medibridge (UZBrussels).