This review article by Cynthia A. Moore, M.D., Ph.D., of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, and coauthors concludes: “Based on our review, ZIKV [Zika virus] infection in pregnancy appears to be the cause of a recognizable pattern of congenital anomalies that is consistent and unique. Although many of the components of this syndrome, such as cognitive, sensory and motor disabilities, are shared by other congenital infections, five features differentiate CZS [congenital Zika syndrome] from other congenital infections: (1) severe microcephaly with partially collapses skull; (2) thin cerebral cortices with subcortical calcifications; (3) macular scarring and focal pigmentary retinal mottling; (4) congenital contractures; and (5) marked early hypertonia with symptoms of extrapyramidal involvement. Recognition of this phenotype by pediatric clinicians will help ensure appropriate and timely evaluation and follow-up of affected infants.”
(JAMA Pediatr. Published online November 3, 2016. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2016.3982.)
Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, financial disclosures, funding and support, etc.
