cytomegalovirus infection and atherosclerosis: a systematic review

cytomegalovirus (cmv) infection is one of the most common infections that affects humans’ cardiovascular system. although the literature includes controversial evidence for any correlation between cmv infection and arterial atherosclerosis, the majority of studies, especially those with larger patient population and stronger data stand for such a relationship. however, the number of prospective studies was very limited. so, we believe that future studies should be directed towards prospective studies investigating either the impact of cmv infection or antiviral treatment on atherosclerosis formation and advancement in different patient populations including patients undergoing cabg and/or patients with moderate atherosclerosis.