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Management of Parvovirus B19 Infection in Pregnancy

Maternal-fetal protocol for human parvovirus B19 acquired during pregnancy.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Management of Parvovirus B19 Infection in Pregnancy?

Parvovirus B19 is a single-stranded DNA virus that causes erythema infectiosum, also known as fifth disease, primarily in children. In pregnant women, infection acquired before 20 weeks of gestation can cause fetal anemia, non-immune hydrops fetalis, myocarditis and intrauterine death.

Maternal infection is often subclinical, with mild rash, arthralgia or transient anemia. Diagnosis is established by detection of B19 IgM and IgG, and by polymerase chain reaction in selected cases. Once acute maternal infection is confirmed, weekly ultrasound and middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity Doppler are recommended for at least 8 to 12 weeks to detect fetal anemia.

Mild and moderate fetal anemia may resolve spontaneously, but severe anemia or hydrops requires intrauterine red cell transfusion in a tertiary fetal medicine center. Fetuses surviving intrauterine transfusion generally have a good neurodevelopmental outcome. There is no specific antiviral therapy and most exposures during pregnancy do not result in adverse fetal outcomes.

Symptoms

Maternal mild rash
Joint pain and swelling
Low-grade fever
Mild fatigue
Reduced fetal movements
Polyhydramnios on ultrasound
Signs of fetal hydrops

Risk Factors

School teachers and childcare workers
Mothers of school-aged children
Healthcare workers in pediatrics
Outbreak in community
Lack of prior immunity
Hematologic disorders
Immunocompromise

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Maternal exposure to fifth disease
  • Maternal rash and joint pain in pregnancy
  • Reduced fetal movements
  • Abnormal ultrasound findings
  • Confirmed B19 IgM positivity
  • Concerns about fetal hydrops

Treatment Methods

01
Serologic testing for IgM, IgG and PCR
02
Weekly fetal ultrasound for 8 to 12 weeks
03
Middle cerebral artery Doppler surveillance
04
Intrauterine transfusion for severe anemia
05
Multidisciplinary fetal medicine care
06
Patient education on workplace exposure
07
Postnatal pediatric follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.