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[Parvovirus B19 infection: the general aspects and gestational problems]
L Di Stefano1, G Carta, R Barnabei
1Università degli Studi de L'Aquila, Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, USSL N. 6.
Abstract:
Parvovirus B19 is a small, heat-stable, single-strained DNA virus (5.5 kb), with 23 nm icosahedral capsid discovered in 1975. Since its discovery, the virus has been shown to be a causative agent of erythema infectiosum (fifth disease). Under specific circumstances it can cause transient aplastic crisis, chronic anemia, arthritis and fetal death. Laboratory diagnosis of recent or past B19 infection usually relies on the demonstration of virus-specific IgM or IgG antibodies in patient's serum. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Parvovirus B19 infection among 87 pregnant patients. Our study on anti-B19 antibody prevalence indicates that about 64% of pregnant women in our country lack specific antibodies and are at risk of B19 infection. One intrauterine death was encountered in a patient with specific IgM antibodies. The authors suggest the detection of IgG and IgM anti-B19 antibodies as a routine screening practice during pregnancy.
Insights
Most pregnant women lack Parvovirus B19 antibodies, increasing infection risk. Early detection of IgG and IgM anti-B19 antibodies is crucial during pregnancy to prevent complications like intrauterine death.
Area of Science:
- Virology: Focuses on Parvovirus B19, a DNA virus.
- Immunology: Investigates antibody prevalence (IgM, IgG) in pregnant women.
Context:
- Parvovirus B19 causes erythema infectiosum (fifth disease) and can lead to serious complications.
- Diagnosis typically involves detecting virus-specific antibodies in serum.
- Pregnancy poses unique risks for Parvovirus B19 infection.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of Parvovirus B19 infection in pregnant women.
- To assess the risk of infection among pregnant individuals lacking specific antibodies.
- To evaluate the utility of antibody detection for routine screening.
Summary:
- A study evaluated 87 pregnant patients for Parvovirus B19 antibodies.
- Results showed 64% of pregnant women lacked specific antibodies, indicating a high risk.
- One case of intrauterine death was linked to a patient with IgM antibodies.
Impact:
- Highlights a significant population at risk for Parvovirus B19 during pregnancy.
- Suggests routine screening for IgG and IgM anti-B19 antibodies in pregnant patients.
- Emphasizes the potential link between Parvovirus B19 and adverse pregnancy outcomes.