Diseases
Parvovirus B19
Parvovirus B19 is characterized by a high stability towards environmental factors and detergents. The virus attacks a receptor on the erythrocytes, the globoside blood group-p-antigen.
Transmission and Disease of Parvovirus B19
The Parvovirus B19 infection (Fifth Disease, Erythrema infectiosum) can be found all over the world, especially in spring, local epidemics, preferred in kindergarten, schools, families and in hospital areas. The infection can induce for adults acral erythrema and arthritis. Parvovirus multiplies in erythroblasts and trigger in this way a temporary anemia. The infection may lead for immunocompromised people to complications and also death.
The Parvovirus B19 is the causative agent of several diseases. The most common ones are:
Erythema Infectiosum (Fifth Disease): A common childhood illness caused by Parvovirus B19. Typical symptoms include a ring-shaped red rash on the face (hence the name "fifth disease"), accompanied by fever and sometimes mild cold symptoms.
Fifth Disease (Erythema infectiosum): Also known as "Slapped Cheek Disease," primarily affects children. It is characterized by a "slapped cheek" rash on the face and a red, itchy rash on the arms and legs.
Arthralgia (acute joint pain): Parvovirus B19 can cause acute joint pain, especially in adults, which may be accompanied by painful swelling and can last for several weeks.
Anemia in immunocompromised individuals: In individuals with weakened immune systems, particularly those with chronic hemolytic anemia, Parvovirus B19 can cause severe anemia.
