Laboratory diagnosis of congenital CMV infection is accomplished by isolation(viral-culture) or molecular detection(PCR) of CMV from urine or saliva samples collected within the first three weeks of life. Both viral culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests have high sensitivity and specificity for detection of CMV in infected neonates. Serology should not be used for the routine diagnosis of congenital CMV infection.
Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common sequelae of congenital CMV infection. The newborn hearing screen is a valuable tool for detecting otherwise asymptomatic infants with CMV infection.
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