Can MRS detect metabolites differences in fetuses affected by CMV?

We aimed to examine whether MR spectroscopy (MRS) within the deep grey matter can detect brain metabolic changes in fetal cytomegalovirus infection. Retrospective data from 47 fetuses with brain sonography, MRI, and MRS scans were used: 27 women had a positive PCR on amniocentesis. Seven (out of the 27) fetuses had brain MRI findings common to CMV. NAA+NAAG, and Cr were significantly lower in fetuses with PCR+ and MRI findings. No differences were detected in fetuses without imaging findings (PCR+ and PCR-). These metabolic changes could reflect brain impairments.