Global Trends in the Study of Cytomegalovirus Infection in Children: A Bibliometric Analysis
Nurzhanat Ussengazy, Saltanat Urazaeva, Meirambek Kurmangazin, Akezhan Astrakhanov
A
BSTRACT
Background:
Pediatric cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, particularly congenital CMV, remains a major cause of neonatal morbidity and long-term neurological impairment worldwide. Despite increasing research output, the alignment between scientific evidence and healthcare delivery systems remains unclear.
Objective:
The objective of the study was to analyze global and regional research trends in pediatric CMV infection and evaluate their implications for healthcare organization using bibliometric methods.
Materials and Methods:
A bibliometric analysis was conducted using publications indexed in Web of Science and Scopus from 2016 to 2026. Relevant studies were identified using predefined search strategies focusing on pediatric and congenital CMV. Bibliometric indicators, including publication trends, citation analysis, leading countries, institutions, authors, and keyword co-occurrence, were analyzed. Visualization tools RStudio were used to map collaboration networks and research hotspots.
Results:
A total of 1261 publications were included. The number of publications showed a steady increase over the study period, with a peak in recent years. The United States, China, and European countries were the leading contributors. Keyword analysis identified major research clusters including congenital CMV, screening strategies, antiviral therapy, and neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, limited research was identified from low- and middle-income countries. A significant gap was observed between research output and implementation in healthcare systems, particularly in screening and early diagnosis.
Conclusion:
Although research on pediatric CMV infection has grown substantially, disparities in global research contributions and a translational gap between evidence and healthcare practice persist. Strengthening healthcare systems and improving integration of research findings into clinical practice are essential to reduce the burden of CMV infection.