Choose the virus that is responsible for “Microcephaly, intracerebral calcifications, hepatosplenomegaly” when the fetus is exposed in utero (CHOOSE 1 VIRUS)
Choose the virus that is responsible for “Microcephaly, intracerebral calcifications, hepatosplenomegaly” when the fetus is exposed in utero (CHOOSE 1 VIRUS)
💡 Explanation
## **Core Concept**
The question tests knowledge on congenital infections, specifically those caused by viruses, and their effects on the fetus when infection occurs in utero. The symptoms listed - microcephaly, intracerebral calcifications, and hepatosplenomegaly - are characteristic of a particular viral infection.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **Cytomegalovirus (CMV)**, is a member of the herpesvirus family. CMV infection is a leading cause of congenital viral infection and can result in severe birth defects. When a fetus is infected with CMV in utero, it can lead to a constellation of findings known as congenital CMV syndrome. This syndrome is characterized by:
- **Microcephaly**: A condition where the head circumference is smaller than expected due to abnormal brain development.
- **Intracerebral calcifications**: The presence of calcium deposits within the brain, which can be detected by imaging studies.
- **Hepatosplenomegaly**: Enlargement of the liver and spleen, indicating involvement of these organs.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** While *Toxoplasmosis*, caused by *Toxoplasma gondii*, can lead to congenital abnormalities including cerebral calcifications and hepatosplenomegaly, it is a parasitic infection, not a viral one.
- **Option B:** Rubella (German measles) can cause congenital rubella syndrome, which includes features like microcephaly and hepatosplenomegaly but is less commonly associated with the specific combination of findings listed and has been significantly reduced due to vaccination.
- **Option D:** Zika virus infection has been associated with microcephaly and other neurological abnormalities but typically not with the combination of intracerebral calcifications and hepatosplenomegaly as commonly seen with CMV.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **CMV** is the most common cause of congenital viral infection in developed countries and can lead to significant morbidity, including hearing loss, developmental delay, and the physical findings mentioned. Pregnant women are advised to practice preventive measures to reduce the risk of CMV infection.