Various techniques of DNA template preparation for the PCR-based analy
sis of human CMV in biological fluids have been compared. Structural p
olymorphism of a CMV DNA segment (part of the major immediate early ge
ne) in clinical isolates is described; the molecular markers (nucleoti
de substitutions, deletions, insertions) localized in the analyzed amp
licon appear to be suitable for molecular-epidemiological studies. A s
cheme of spreading of the molecular markers in the population is sugge
sted.