In neonatal infections, which viral infection is least likely to cause skin lesions?

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is least likely to cause skin lesions in cases of neonatal infections compared to the other viruses listed. CMV infections in neonates primarily lead to systemic issues, including neurological manifestations, growth retardation, and hepatosplenomegaly, rather than specific skin lesions.

In contrast, herpes simplex virus (HSV) is known for causing vesicular skin lesions, particularly in neonates where it can lead to severe skin and mucosal involvement. Measles virus can also lead to a characteristic rash that appears several days after other symptoms, exhibiting distinct lesions that are often maculopapular. Varicella-zoster virus (VZV), responsible for chickenpox, causes a very recognizable vesicular rash that may cover a significant part of the body in infected infants.

In summary, while the other viruses are associated with distinct skin manifestations, CMV typically presents with more internal complications rather than significant skin involvement, making it the viral infection least likely to cause skin lesions in neonates.