Type of test Blood
Normal findings
Negative for immunoglobulin M (IgM)- and IgG-specific anti bodies to parvovirus B19
Test explanation and related physiology
The parvovirus B19 is known to be a human pathogen. Many of the severe manifestations of B19 viremia relate to the ability of the virus to infect and lyse RBC precursors in the bone marrow.
Erythema infectiosum is the most common manifestation of parvovirus B19 infection and occurs predominantly in children. This pathogen is also referred to as fifth disease or academy rash. Serologic testing for parvovirus B19–specific IgM and IgG antibodies can be done. Acute infections can be determined by parvovirus B19–compatible symptoms and the presence of IgM antibodies that remain detectable up to a few months. Past infection or immunity is documented by IgG antibodies that per sist with IgM antibodies. Fetal infection may be recognized by hydrops fetalis and the presence of B19 DNA in amniotic fluid or fetal blood.
Procedure and patient care
• See inside front cover for Routine Blood Testing.
• Fasting: no
• Blood tube commonly used: verify with laboratory
* Inform the patient that it normally requires approximately 2 to 3 days to get test results.
Abnormal findings
Increased levels
- Erythema infectiosum (fifth disease)
- Joint arthralgia and arthritis
- Hydrops fetalis
- Fetal loss
- Transient aplastic anemia
- Chronic anemia in immunodeficient patients
- Bone marrow failure
