Cytomegaloviral disease is infection caused by cytomegalovirus which is a viral genus of the viral group known as Herpesviridae or herpesviruses. All herpesviruses share a characteristic ability to remain latent within the body over long periods. Although they may be found throughout the body, CMV infections are frequently associated with the salivary glands in humans and other mammals.
The infection is characterised by enlarged cells bearing intranuclear inclusions. Infection may be in almost any organ, but the salivary glands are the most common site in children, as are the lungs in adults.