What Is the Most Effective Management of Congenital Cytomegalovirus-Related Hearing Loss?

Abstract

Antiviral therapy is recommended for infants with moderate-to-severe symptomatic congenital CMV, as randomized controlled trials have demonstrated improved audiologic and neurodevelopmental outcomes when treatment is initiated within the first month of life; for isolated SNHL, evidence remains limited, and treatment decisions should be individualized. Following medical management, children with severe-to-profound SNHL should undergo timely evaluation for hearing rehabilitation, including cochlear implantation when appropriate, as early access to auditory input may optimize speech, language, and communication outcomes. Although progress may be slower in children with neurologic comorbidities, most achieve meaningful improvements in hearing and communication.