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Parvovirus B19: a pathogen responsible for more than hematologic disorders
Burkhard D Bültmann1, Karin Klingel, Karl Sotlar
1Institute of Pathology, University of Tübingen, Liebermeisterstrasse 8, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany. bdbueltm@med.uni-tuebingen.de
Virchows Archiv : an International Journal of Pathology
|January 22, 2003
Summary
Parvovirus B19 (PVB19) can trigger or worsen underlying conditions, especially in immunocompromised patients. Molecular methods are crucial for diagnosing PVB19, with endothelial cells identified as key targets in severe infections.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Pathology
- Immunology
Background:
- Parvovirus B19 (PVB19) infections present diverse clinical and pathomorphological patterns.
- PVB19 can exacerbate pre-existing conditions like hemolytic anemias and immunodeficiencies, leading to severe organ manifestations.
- Traditional histology is limited to detecting PVB19 in specific lytic infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of molecular pathology in diagnosing PVB19-associated diseases.
- To identify PVB19 target cells in various organs using molecular methods.
- To highlight the importance of including PVB19 in the differential diagnosis of viral diseases, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to measure viral load in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues.
- In situ hybridization was utilized to detect PVB19 within specific cell types.
- Analysis focused on tissues from various organs to identify PVB19 target cells.
Main Results:
- Molecular pathological methods are essential for diagnosing most PVB19-associated diseases.
- Endothelial cells in the heart and hepatobiliary system were identified as PVB19-specific target cells in lytic infections.
- Quantitative real-time PCR and in situ hybridization proved effective in detecting PVB19 in diverse tissues.
Conclusions:
- PVB19 diagnosis often requires molecular techniques beyond routine histology.
- Endothelial cells are critical targets for PVB19 in severe lytic infections.
- Pathologists should consider PVB19 in their diagnostic workup, especially for immunocompromised patients with unexplained symptoms.