Inclusion body of CMV is –
**Core Concept**
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a member of the herpesvirus family that can cause a range of clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic infection to severe disease in immunocompromised individuals. The virus is characterized by the formation of characteristic cytopathic effects in infected cells, including the presence of intranuclear inclusions.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The inclusion body associated with CMV infection is known as the **owl's eye inclusion**. This is due to the presence of a large, eosinophilic nuclear inclusion surrounded by a clear halo, resembling an owl's eye. The viral replication occurs in the host cell's nucleus, leading to the formation of these characteristic inclusions. The inclusion is composed of viral capsid proteins and the host cell's nucleic acids.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect as it does not describe a characteristic feature of CMV infection. While other viruses may form inclusions, the specific "owl's eye" appearance is unique to CMV.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect as it describes a feature of another viral infection, not CMV. The "ground-glass" appearance is characteristic of measles infection, not CMV.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect as it describes a feature of viral replication, but not a specific inclusion body associated with CMV.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In immunocompromised patients, CMV infection can cause significant morbidity and mortality. Recognition of the characteristic "owl's eye" inclusion is crucial for diagnosing CMV infection in these patients.
**Correct Answer: C. Owl's eye inclusion.**