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Parvovirus B19 during pregnancy: a review
Elsa Giorgio1, Maria Antonietta De Oronzo, Irene Iozza
1Policlinico Universitario "G. Martino", Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Messina, Italy.
Parvovirus B19 infection in pregnant women can lead to severe fetal issues like anemia and hydrops, potentially causing fetal death. Early monitoring and intervention for fetal anemia are crucial for reducing mortality.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Parvovirus B19 infections require special attention in pregnant women due to potential adverse fetal outcomes.
- The virus can cause significant harm to both the mother and the fetus, including fetal anemia, non-immune hydrops fetalis, and fetal demise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the risks associated with parvovirus B19 infection during pregnancy.
- To emphasize the importance of monitoring and intervention strategies for parvovirus B19 in pregnant women.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on parvovirus B19 infections in pregnancy.
- Analysis of cases reporting fetal demise associated with parvovirus B19, particularly during the second and third trimesters.
Main Results:
- Parvovirus B19 is frequently detected in cases of fetal demise, especially in later pregnancy stages.
- No specific treatment or prophylaxis is currently available for parvovirus B19 infection.
Conclusions:
- Counseling non-immune mothers about parvovirus B19 risks is recommended.
- Active monitoring of maternal infections and intervention for fetal anemia can decrease fetal mortality rates.
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