Human cytomegalovirus infection in women of childbearing age, Fars Province: a population-based cohort study

Background: Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a ubiquities infection in women of childbearing age and is the most common cause of congenital malformation resulting from viral intrauterine infections either in developed or developing countries. This study was performed to evaluate the seroprevalence of HCMV-IgM and IgG antibodies and some of epidemiological risk factors in women of childbearing age in southern Iran. Methods: 844 women of childbearing age from Fars Province, southern Iran who referred to Health Genetic Consulting Center of Shiraz from 2001-2005 were enrolled. The serum of the collected blood samples were separated and stored at -20°C and HCMV-IgM and IgG antibodies were detected by IgM capture and IgG ELISA tests. Results: 45 (5.4%) samples were seropositive and 778 (94.6%) were seronegative for HCMV-IgM antibodies, respectively. HCMV-IgG antibodies were seropositive in 764 (93%) and seronegative in 8 (7%) blood samples. A negative significant correlation was observed between IgG titer of HCMV and previous abortions. A significant positive trend was detected between HCMV-IgG titer and increase in age. Also, a higher sensitivity to primary infection was observed in Shiraz population than the other cities of this province. Conclusion: For the negative correlation of HCMV-IgG titer with the history of abortion, and for protection of women of child bearing age, the design of effective vaccines may be useful for provoking IgG titer against HCMV infections.