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Updated: Jun 16, 2026

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Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Infection and Detection
Published on: February 7, 2019
Parvovirus b19 DNA is commonly harboured in human skin
F Bonvicini1, M La Placa, E Manaresi
1Division of Microbiology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy. francesca.bonvicini4@unibo.it
Summary
Parvovirus B19 DNA is present in various skin lesions and healthy skin, with higher detection rates in younger individuals, suggesting viral persistence. This finding impacts understanding of B19 virus in tissues.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Parvovirus B19 is the cause of erythema infectiosum.
- The role of Parvovirus B19 DNA in skin tissues is debated despite its detection in various lesions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect Parvovirus B19 DNA in skin lesions associated with B19-related diseases.
- To investigate B19 DNA presence in skin lesions of unrelated diseases.
- To examine B19 DNA in healthy skin samples.
Main Methods:
- Utilized PCR assays and peptide-nucleic-acid-based in situ hybridization.
- Analyzed 121 skin samples, including lesional and healthy skin biopsies.
Main Results:
- Parvovirus B19 DNA was detected in pityriasis lichenoides (28.9%), melanocytic naevi (26.7%), primary melanomas (17.2%), and healthy skin (25.0%).
- Prevalence of B19 DNA varied significantly with age, being higher in younger subjects, irrespective of the skin condition.
Conclusions:
- Parvovirus B19 DNA is detectable in diverse skin tissues, including healthy skin and lesions unrelated to B19 infection.
- Higher detection rates in younger individuals suggest potential viral persistence post-primary infection.
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