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Parvovirus B19

Infection with parvovirus B19 is usually mild, and the symptoms often include a rash on the cheeks, known as “slapped cheek” rash in children, and joint pain in adults. Complications may arise in people with underlying blood disorders or a weakened immune system. Infection early during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage.

Overview
Parvovirus B19 infection typically does not cause symptoms or causes mild illness, such as flu-like symptoms, rashes, and joint pain. In individuals with blood disorders or a weakened immune system, the infection can lead to a decrease in blood cell count. Infection during pregnancy can sometimes cause additional complications.

Symptoms
The symptoms of parvovirus B19 infection are usually mild and may include:
• Fever
• Headache
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Rashes
• Joint pain

Rashes
The clinical presentation most commonly associated with parvovirus B19 infection is a red rash on the face, also known as the “slapped cheek” rash. This is also referred to as Fifth disease (or Erythema infectiosum). This rash usually appears a few days after fever or flu-like symptoms.
Parvovirus B19 infection can also cause a general rash on the chest, back, buttocks, or arms and legs. It typically disappears within 7 to 10 days but may reappear intermittently for several weeks.

Joint Pain
Parvovirus B19 infection can cause pain and swelling in the joints, known as polyarthropathy syndrome. This is more common in adults than in children and typically occurs in women.
Adults may experience joint pain without other symptoms. Joint pain usually lasts for 1 to 3 weeks but may last for months or longer. It usually resolves without long-term issues.

Complications
Parvovirus B19 infection is generally mild. However, in some people, it can cause serious health complications affecting the nervous system, joints, or blood system.
Parvovirus B19 has been shown to cause a severe drop in blood cell count (anemia) in some patients with certain blood disorders or a weakened immune system.
You may be at increased risk for complications from parvovirus B19 infection if you have one or more of the following health conditions:
• Leukemia or cancer
• Organ transplant
• HIV infection
• Blood disorders such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia

Parvovirus B19 During Pregnancy
If you become infected with parvovirus B19 during pregnancy, the virus can be transmitted to the baby. This is uncommon but can lead to a miscarriage.

Diagnosis
In special cases, your healthcare provider may perform a PCR test on blood to detect active parvovirus infection. This test will determine if you are currently infected with parvovirus B19.