Cytomegalovirus Seroprevalence as a Risk Factor for Poor Outcome in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome*

Abstract

Cytomegalovirus seroprevalence is not associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation or increased mortality in critically ill patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome, with possible exception of patients presenting with septic shock. Therefore, a prevention strategy targeting an unselected cohort of seropositive patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome is unlikely to show any meaningful benefit.