Aikaterini Markou

Dr. Aikaterini Markou


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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30 August 2025 in Vaccines
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
Rafaela Anna MoutsopoulouRafaela Anna Moutsopoulou
Rafaela Anna Moutsopoulou
AMAikaterini Markou
Aikaterini Markou
ALAlexandra Lianou
Alexandra Lianou
Konstantina V. LeontariKonstantina V. Leontari
Konstantina V. Leontari
ZIZoi Iliodromiti
Zoi Iliodromiti
Rozeta SokouRozeta Sokou
Rozeta Sokou
Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection is the most prevalent congenital infection, affecting approximately 0.5–2% of newborns, and is the leading non-genetic cause of sensorineural hearing loss and neurological impairment. The most severe outcome occurs following primary maternal infection during the first trimester of pregnancy, and up to 40–50% of affected fetuses sustain permanent damage. Diagnosis relies on early prenatal screening through maternal serum testing, optimally performed in the first trimester, followed by confirmatory amniocentesis after 17 weeks’ gestation. Prenatal imaging with ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a critical role in the identification of fetal brain abnormalities. Prevention strategies emphasize hygiene measures aimed at reducing maternal exposure to bodily fluids of young children, particularly prior to conception and during early pregnancy. Despite progress in vaccine development, currently available ones demonstrate modest efficacy. This review presents a comprehensive summary of congenital CMV infection, addressing its epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic approaches, clinical presentation, and preventive measures, with a focus on recent advances in vaccine research.