Congenital CMV and Hearing Loss

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Hearing loss is common in babies with congenital CMV, even those without symptoms at birth.

Cytomegalovirus, or CMV, is the most common infectious cause of birth defects in the United States. About 1 out of 200 babies is born with congenital CMV.

One out of 5 babies with congenital CMV will have symptoms or long-term health problems, such as hearing loss. Hearing loss may progress from mild to severe during the first two years of life, which is a critical period for language learning. Over time, hearing loss can affect your child’s ability to develop communication, language, and social skills.

Some babies with signs of congenital CMV at birth may benefit from medicines.

Babies who show signs of congenital CMV disease can be treated with medicines called antivirals. Antivirals may decrease the severity of hearing loss. Babies who get treated with antivirals should be closely watched by their doctor because of possible side effects.

Young boy at medical examination or checkup in otolaryngologist's office.

Hearing loss can be present at birth or develop later.

Babies with congenital CMV may have hearing loss in one ear and may later develop hearing loss in the other ear. Progression may occur through adolescence.

Children with hearing loss can benefit from services.

Children diagnosed with hearing loss should receive services such as speech or occupational therapy. These services help ensure they develop important communication, language, and social skills. Children with hearing loss can also learn other ways to communicate, such as using sign language, and to use devices such as hearing aids and cochlear implants. The earlier children with hearing loss start receiving services, the more likely they are to reach their full potential.

Signs of congenital CMV in newborns

About 10% of babies with congenital CMV infection have signs at birth that include:

Rash
Jaundice (yellowing of skin or whites of the eyes)
Microcephaly (small head)
Low birth weight
Hepatosplenomegaly (enlarged liver and spleen)
Seizures
Retinitis (damaged eye retina)

Signs of Hearing Loss in Babies

Does not startle at loud noises
Does not turn to the source of a sound after 6 months of age
Does not say single words, such as “dada” or “mama” by 1 year of age
Turns head when he or she sees you but not if you only call out his or her name
Seems to hear some sounds but not others

Signs of Hearing Loss in Children

Speech is delayed
Speech is not clear
Does not follow directions. This could be the result of a partial or complete hearing loss
Often says, “Huh?”
Turns the TV volume up too high