LAUSR

We read the publication on “Watch out for congenital Zika syndrome in non-endemic regions” with a great interest [1]. Zare Mehrjardi concluded that “it is important for physicians practicing in non-endemic regions to be familiar with the clinical and neuroimaging manifestations of CZS and to consider this diagnosis as a potential etiology for congenital microcephaly and other fetal central nervous system abnormalities [1].” We would like to share ideas and experience on this topic. In non-endemic areas, the emergence of Zika virus is possible. At present, there are continuous reports on Zika virus infection in new settings. Hence, there is no doubt that the practitioner has to be aware of possible Zika virus infection and the infection should be in the list of differential diagnosis. Nevertheless, although there is a classical common clinical manifestation of congenital Zika virus syndrome, the disease has a wide clinical spectrum [2]. In endemic areas, the disease might be asymptomatic and might result in very serious clinical presentations. Neuroimaging in congenial Zika virus syndrome might be clearly demonstrated or there might be no positive finding [3]. Hence, the practitioner should not forget the chance of asymptomatic infection [4]. It is suggested that the Zika virus infection should be included in the list of differential diagnosis of any abnormal neonate regardless of classical clinical signs of Zika virus syndrome.