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[Childhood parvovirus B19 encephalitis]

P Meyer1, E Jeziorski, L Bott-Gilton

  • 1Service d'immuno-rhumatologie et maladies infectieuses pédiatriques, université Montpellier-1, CHU de Montpellier, France. pagmeyer@yahoo.fr

Archives De Pediatrie : Organe Officiel De La Societe Francaise De Pediatrie
|October 4, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Human parvovirus B19 (PVB19) can cause encephalitis in children, particularly those with febrile rash and seizures. Early diagnosis through PCR and IgM detection is crucial for effective management of this viral infection.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Virology

Background:

  • Human parvovirus B19 (PVB19) is a common childhood virus causing erythema infectiosum (fifth disease).
  • PVB19 infections are increasingly recognized for their association with neurological complications, including encephalitis.

Observation:

  • A case report details a 3-year-old boy presenting with febrile encephalitis, characterized by altered mental status, seizures, and rash.
  • Diagnostic workup included normal cerebrospinal fluid and brain imaging, with electroencephalography showing focal slowing.

Findings:

  • PVB19 primo-infection was confirmed by detecting viral DNA in serum and CSF via PCR, alongside specific IgM antibodies.
  • In France, PVB19 accounts for 4.3% of undiagnosed pediatric meningoencephalitis cases, often presenting with seizures and rash.

Implications:

  • PVB19 should be considered in the differential diagnosis of childhood encephalitis, especially with concurrent rash and seizures.
  • Testing for PVB19 is recommended in children with compatible symptoms, despite not being standard in current guidelines, due to diagnostic simplicity and efficacy.
Abstract

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