Primary Cytomegalovirus Pneumonia Successfully Treated with Corticosteroid Therapy and Valganciclovir

Intern Med. 2024 Jan 15;63(2):271-276. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.1638-23. Epub 2023 May 24.

Abstract

Cytomegalovirus infection is typically asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals. A 26-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with a fever and breathlessness. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed bilateral diffuse reticulation and nodules. Laboratory investigations showed atypical lymphocytosis and increased transaminases. She was treated with corticosteroid pulse therapy because of acute lung injury, and her clinical condition improved. Based on the presence of cytomegalovirus antibodies, antigen, and polymerase chain reaction findings, she was diagnosed with primary cytomegalovirus pneumonia and treated with valganciclovir. Primary cytomegalovirus pneumonia is very rare in immunocompetent individuals. The efficacy of corticosteroid and valganciclovir against cytomegalovirus pneumonia in this patient is noteworthy.

Keywords: corticosteroid therapy; cytomegalovirus; cytomegalovirus pneumonia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cytomegalovirus
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections* / diagnosis
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections* / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pneumonia* / drug therapy
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Valganciclovir / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Valganciclovir
  • Antiviral Agents