Parvovirus infection in pregnancy

A case is presented of serologically proved parvovirus infection leading to intrauterine death of the hydropic fetus at 20 weeks' gestation. Although serologic studies of the population indicate that 30-50% of women are susceptible to parvovirus infection, the prevalence of parvovirus infection in pregnancy and the consequences of such an infection are not well understood. A review of reported cases in the world literature indicates a high risk to the fetus once the virus crosses the placenta.